Peer-to-Peer Human Milk Sharing: Recipient Mothers' Motivations,Stress,and Postpartum Mental Health

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

Some mothers who cannot breastfeed—partially or completely—choose to feed their infants human milk donated from a peer. Few studies have examined mothers' experiences with using donor milk; none has examined whether or not mothers' stress and mental health are associated with using donor milk from a peer.

Methods:

Researchers conducted semistructured individual interviews with mothers from the United States and Canada (N = 20) to answer the following questions: (a) what are recipient mothers' motivations for participation in peer-to-peer breast milk sharing and (b) what is the relationship between receiving donated milk and mothers' stress and mental health postpartum? Transcripts were coded using an inductive approach and principles of grounded theory were used to analyze data.

Results:

Data were organized under two themes: (a) motivations for using milk from a peer and (b) milk-sharing and stress-related experiences. Motivations included health benefits, medical need, and preference for human milk over formula. Factors inducing stress were as follows: logistical stressors of securing donor milk and fear of running out of milk. Factors reducing stress were as follows: donor milk provided relief and comfort and its use reduced mothers' self-reported symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety.

Conclusions:

Mothers participated in peer-to-peer breast milk sharing primarily because of health benefits for children. However, participation also had important psychological benefits for some mothers. Additional research and open discourse are needed to support mothers who choose to use milk from a peer and to promote safety of this practice.