Milk Composition Is Predictive of Low Milk Supply Using Machine Learning Approaches

Background/Objectives: The causes of low milk supply are multifactorial, including factors such as gene mutations, endocrine disorders, and infrequent milk removal. These factors affect the functional capacity of the mammary gland and, potentially, the concentrations of milk components. This study aimed to investigate the differences in milk composition between mothers with low and normal milk supply and develop predictive machine learning models for identifying low milk supply. Methods: Twenty-four-hour milk production measurements were conducted using the test-weigh method. An array of milk components was measured in 58 women with low milk supply (<600 mL/24 h) and 106 with normal milk supply (≥600 mL/24 h). Machine learning algorithms were employed to develop prediction models integrating milk composition and maternal and infant characteristics. Results: Among the six machine learning algorithms tested, deep learning and gradient boosting machines methods had the best performance metrics. The best-performing model, incorporating 14 milk components and maternal and infant characteristics, achieved an accuracy of 87.9%, an area under the precision-recall curve (AUPRC) of 0.893, and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.917. Additionally, a simplified model, optimised for clinical applicability, maintained a reasonable accuracy of 78.8%, an AUPRC of 0.776, and an AUC of 0.794. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate the potential of machine learning models to predict low milk supply with high accuracy. Integrating milk composition and maternal and infant characteristics offers a practical approach to identify women at risk of low milk supply, facilitating timely interventions to support breastfeeding and ensure adequate infant nutrition.