Critical shortage of Breast Milk Threatens Vulnerable Infants

The Social Security Institute of the State of Mexico and Municipalities (ISSEMYM) is making an urgent appeal for breast milk donations. The Maternal Child Hospital’s Human Milk Bank is facing a severe shortage, jeopardizing the health and well-being of newborns unable to receive milk directly from their mothers.

The Vital Role of Breast Milk: A lifeline for Neonates

Breast milk is indispensable for infant growth, offering crucial nutrients and antibodies that bolster the immune system and protect against infections. For premature or sick babies, it can be a matter of life and death. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breastfeeding significantly reduces infant mortality rates and provides long-term health benefits, including a lower risk of obesity and diabetes later in life.

Breastfeeding is the optimal way to feed infants. It provides the nutrients they need for healthy development.

World Health Organization

Demand Outstrips Supply: The Urgent Need for Donors

Kelda Itzel Puente Antonio, a clinical chemist at the milk bank, reports a critical gap between supply and demand.The hospital requires an average of 40 liters of breast milk each week to meet the needs of its hospitalized newborns and neonates. Currently, only 30 active donors are providing between 10 and 15 liters weekly, falling far short of the required amount.The ideal scenario would be to triple the current collection to adequately serve the infants in need.

ISSEMYM Streamlines Donation Process: Free Collection Service Available

To facilitate donations, ISSEMYM offers a free collection service, making it easier for lactating mothers to contribute. Interested individuals can contact the milk bank at 722 236 0840, extension 140 1519, for more details and to schedule a collection.

Rigorous Screening Ensures milk Safety

ISSEMYM prioritizes the safety of the donated milk. Potential donors undergo thorough screening, including tests for Hepatitis B and C, Syphilis, and HIV. Only women with negative test results are approved to donate. Approved donors receive sterile glass containers for milk collection.

Stringent Quality Control Measures

Once collected, the milk undergoes a rigorous process to ensure its safety and nutritional value. the milk is manually extracted and deposited in sterile glass containers, followed by bacteriological analysis, pasteurization, and freezing for preservation.

Call to Action: Become a Breast Milk donor

ISSEMYM emphasizes the altruistic nature of breast milk donation and encourages healthy, lactating women with surplus milk to participate in this life-saving initiative. Donating is free and open to all, regardless of ISSEMYM affiliation. By donating breast milk, women can make a critically important difference in the lives of vulnerable infants, providing them with the best possible start in life.