Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations International Children's
Emergency Fund (UNICEF) recommend initiating breastfeeding within the first hour
after birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and continued
breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond, alongside the introduction of appropriate
complementary foods, to optimize child health outcomes (UNICEF, 2018).
Breast milk is naturally designed for infants, providing the ideal balance of proteins,
fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals essential for healthy growth and
development. It contains antibodies and immune cells that help protect babies from
infections, reducing the risk of illnesses such as ear infections, respiratory infections,
and gastrointestinal diseases. Breast milk is also easier to digest than formula, making
babies less likely to experience constipation or diarrhea. Additionally, it contains
essential fatty acids that support brain development and cognitive function. Beyond its
nutritional benefits, breastfeeding fosters a strong bond between mother and baby,
promoting comfort and emotional security (Palmeira & Carneiro-Sampaio, 2016).
In situations where mothers are unable to provide sufficient breast milk due to medical,
economic, or social factors, donated human breast milk (DHBM) is recommended as
the best alternative, as it closely mimics the nutritional and immunological properties
of maternal breast milk more effectively than formula. DHBM is expressed by a mother
and provided to a milk bank for processing before being given to another child.
Research objectives:
• To determine the knowledge, perceptions and attitudes toward donated breast
milk among pregnant women in selected hospitals in Bojanala District, North-
West, South Africa.
• To describe the knowledge, perceptions and attitudes towards donated breast
milk among pregnant women in selected hospitals in Bojanala District, North-
West, South Africa.
Research question: What is the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of pregnant
women towards the use of donated human breast milk in selected hospitals in
Bojanala District, North-West, South Africa?
Methodology: This study employed a qualitative, exploratory and descriptive design,
which is suitable for investigating complex phenomena with the aim of obtaining indepth
insights into people's perspectives, experiences, and actions. This approach
was well-suited for understanding the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of
pregnant women toward donated human breast milk.
Research findings: The study identified notable knowledge gaps regarding DHBM
among participants. While a few had encountered the concept through informal
discussions or social media, most lacked a thorough understanding of the donation
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process, safety measures, and eligibility criteria for donating or receiving milk.
Participants expressed mixed perceptions of DHBM. Positive perceptions were linked
to its potential to save lives and provide essential nutrition to vulnerable infants.
However, negative perceptions stemmed from cultural beliefs, safety concerns, and
fears about the compatibility of donor milk with their child’s needs. The study found
that participants’ attitudes ranged from outright hesitation to conditional acceptance of
DHBM. Those who hesitated cited emotional discomfort, cultural beliefs, and safety
concerns.
Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the knowledge, perceptions,
attitudes, and barriers surrounding DHBM among pregnant women in the Bojanala
District. It highlighted critical knowledge gaps and barriers including cultural beliefs,
safety concerns, and emotional discomfort. While initial hesitations were evident,
conditional openness emerged when participants were informed about the benefits
and safety of DHBM. These findings emphasize the need for targeted, culturally
sensitive education and awareness campaigns.