Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Feb 17: The first breastmilk bank of coastal Karnataka that is established in Lady Goschen hospital of the city is receiving good response from the public. Every month, the number of donors is increasing.

The breastmilk bank started functioning in March 2022. So far 3300 lactating mothers have donated their breast milk to the bank. This breastmilk is pasteurized and fed to 68 babies who were born premature and also to children who are in RAPCC children centre of Wenlock hospital. This information was shared by nodal officer and RMO of hospital Dr Balakrishna Rao N S.

Awareness programmes have increased the number of donors. Initially, it was difficult to convince lactating mothers. Now they are willingly donating breastmilk. Signature of the donor is obtained on the consent form and then the sample of the breastmilk is subjected to general, HIV, Hepatitis B and C and VDRL tests. Once a negative report is received the breastmilk is collected.

The pasteurised breastmilk is tested once again in the laboratory of Wenlock hospital and only after a negative report is obtained, the same is given to children. This breastmilk can be preserved for six months. Medical superintendent says that collection, usage and reserve is happening properly of the collected breastmilk.

Dr Durgaprasad M R, medical superintendent of Lady Goschen hospital said, “Good response is received from lactating mothers and the breastmilk bank is running successfully. This is essential for children who are born prematurely. Instead of artificial milk, if mother’s milk is given, the growth of premature babies will be faster. This shows the humanity of mothers.”