The Feasibility of Donor Human Milk Banking in Türkiye: A Qualitative Analysis of Religious, Institutional, and Policy Dynamics.

Abstract

Research Aim(s)/Question(s):The study aims to ascertain the views of relevant stakeholders regarding the facilitators and barriers to establishing human milk banks in Türkiye and to identify policy requirements for social acceptance.

Methods: A qualitative approach was employed, using in-depth interviews with 22 experts in maternal and child health, including physicians, midwives, nurses, and health managers. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's six-phase thematic analysis framework.

Results: Four central themes and twelve categories emerged: (1) the multifaceted value of human milk, (2) perceptions toward human milk donation, (3) social and institutional barriers, and (4) perspectives on current human milk feeding policies. Key findings highlight that while the biological importance of milk is universally recognized, donation is hindered by "milk kinship" concerns and legal ambiguities. However, the integration of donation data into the national e-Nabız electronic health record system and alignment with religious foundations (e.g., Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 233) were identified as critical policy facilitators.

Conclusion: Stakeholders emphasize that human milk banking is a viable model for Türkiye if implemented through a framework that resolves legal-religious contradictions. Success depends on extending maternity leaves to support breastfeeding rights and establishing a formal dialogue with religious authorities. These findings provide a strategic roadmap for policymakers to integrate human milk banking into public health policy as a sustainable and socially acceptable service.