Human Milk Donation and Human Milk Banking from the Perspective of Fathers: A Qualitative Study

Most research on human milk donation and human milk banking has focused on mothers, while fathers' perspectives remain insufficiently explored. Although mothers may be willing to donate milk or use donor milk for their own infants, these decisions are often shaped by their spouses' viewpoints. This study aimed to explore fathers' views on human milk donation and human milk banking.

This qualitative study used an inductive thematic analysis approach. Data were collected between August and December 2024 through semi-structured interviews with 20 fathers who brought their infants for routine checkups at a state hospital in Türkiye via semi-structured interviews and a descriptive form. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. MAXQDA software was used during the analysis process.

Five main themes with 10 subthemes were identified. Fathers' perspectives reflected a balance between perceived benefits of donor human milk for infants in need and concerns related to religious beliefs, milk kinship, hygiene, and trust. Acceptance of donor milk use for their own infants was conditional and depended on hygienic handling, professional supervision, and transparency regarding donor information. Fathers expressed divided opinions about allowing their wives to donate milk, and views on establishing human milk banks in Türkiye ranged from acceptance to conditional acceptance or rejection.

Fathers' perspectives on human milk donation and milk banking are shaped by the interplay between infant benefits and religious, cultural, and hygiene concerns. Spouses' attitudes and approval regarding milk donation are important family factors influencing decisions about human milk donation.