Breastfeeding is an exciting part of motherhood, something you prepare for and look forward to throughout your pregnancy. It means connecting with your newborn and supporting their health. But sometimes, new moms need help breastfeeding. 

The First Steps Breastfeeding Support Center at Kettering Health Washington Township has an OhioHealth Mothers’ donor breast milk bank for moms who need to supplement their breastfeeding. 

Katy Boyd, a lactation consultant at First Steps, explains why moms might consider purchasing donated breast milk and why it is more beneficial for babies than formula. 

The need for donor milk 

A mom may have several reasons for supplementing with donor breast milk. 

If her milk is delayed after giving birth, donor milk can be useful in the first week to ensure the baby is properly fed. 

Donor milk may also be helpful if 

• A newborn loses more than 10% of their birth weight and needs more milk than their mother can provide. 
• A mother has gestational diabetes, causing her newborn to have low blood sugar at birth.
• A baby develops jaundice and needs an increased volume of milk to reduce their bilirubin levels through hydration and frequent bowel movements. 

Katy says the goal of donor milk is to use only a small amount to supplement a mom’s own supply. 

“We’re always going to have mom breastfeed or pump and use her milk first and just use the donor milk as a bridge.” 

Even if a mother uses just one bottle of donor milk, it’s more beneficial for the baby than formula. 

Donor milk vs. formula 

Breast milk, even if it’s not from their mother, is more beneficial for babies than formula because it contains natural antibodies that build a baby’s immune system. 

“Formula does not have those same properties,” Katy explains. 

Breast milk is also easier on a baby’s digestive system than formula. 

Additionally, Katy explains that because formula takes longer to digest, babies who drink it don’t get hungry as often. This can reduce a mother’s natural milk supply as their body adjusts to their baby’s feeding habits. Because of this, if a mother needs to supplement for a few days, donor breast milk is a better option. 

Using donor breast milk over formula eases some guilt mothers may face when supplementing their breast milk. They can also feel confident that donor mothers are properly screened beforehand. 

Keeping baby healthy

Katy explains that some mothers are apprehensive about using donor milk. However, all donor moms are thoroughly screened, and several blood tests are performed to rule out the possibility of infections or diseases. 

The milk is also pasteurized, heating it to a high enough temperature to kill bacteria. 

Because of this, donor milk is a healthy and effective way for moms to supplement their breastfeeding. 

If you’re having trouble breastfeeding, help is available. To talk with a First Steps lactation consultant and learn more about the OhioHealth Mothers’ Milk Bank, call (937) 401-6881.