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Human milk banking services: an umbrella review
Róisín O'Donovan1, Margaret Murphy1, Elaine Lehane1
1University College Cork, Ireland.
Public Health Nutrition
|July 26, 2026
Summary
Human Milk Banks (HMBs) need sustainable models for Donor Human Milk (DHM) supply. This review highlights a gap in understanding HMB funding and organization, crucial for equitable DHM access.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
- Neonatal Care
Background:
- Donor Human Milk (DHM) is vital for infants whose mothers cannot provide sufficient breast milk.
- Human Milk Banks (HMBs) are essential for collecting, processing, and distributing DHM.
- Ensuring the operational sustainability of HMBs is critical for consistent and equitable DHM supply.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize evidence from systematic reviews on the development and scaling of HMB services internationally.
- To inform the co-design of an evidence framework for HMBs, including governance, quality, and sustainability criteria.
Main Methods:
- An umbrella review methodology was employed, adhering to the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis.
- Searches were conducted across multiple databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, etc.) and grey literature sources.
- Studies published between 2000 and June 2025 were screened by two independent reviewers.
Main Results:
- Thirteen systematic reviews were identified, revealing limited information on HMB organizational and funding models.
- Key stakeholders include DHM donors, recipients, healthcare professionals, and social support systems.
- Facilitators for DHM donation and acceptance include institutional support and accessible information, while barriers include limited public awareness and religious concerns.
Conclusions:
- A significant knowledge gap exists regarding sustainable HMB funding and organizational structures.
- Opportunities for future research include establishing sustainable funding, standardizing governance, and enhancing healthcare professional and public awareness of HMB services.
