For infants unable to receive breastmilk from their mothers, human milk banks (HMBs) serve a vital role. Since 2017, with assistance from A&T and support from Irish Aid, Tu Du Hospital has been working to establish the country’s second HMB.

In Myanmar, the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding among infants under six months of age has increased substantially, according to data from the 2009–2010 Myanmar Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) and the 2015–2016 Myanmar Demographic and Health Survey (MDHS).

Human milk bank (HMB) services are an essential component of a breastfeeding-friendly health system. HMB services give at-risk infants, such as those born pre-term or low birthweight, access to the multiple benefits of breastmilk when they need it most.

The first six months of life are critical for child health and development. Breastmilk provides all the nutrients infants need during this period, supporting brain development and reducing the risk of infection and malnutrition.

In preparation for a national advocacy meeting on human milk banking in Myanmar, A&T worked with UNICEF to develop a brief on human milk banking as a component of a breastfeeding-friendly health systems.

This technical brief highlights key factors that influence newborn nutritional outcomes and the evidence-based practices that can be applied globally to support optimal infant nutrition within the first 28 days.