With support from the Government of Ireland, Alive & Thrive is working to tackle malnutrition and reach global nutrition targets in the Mekong Sub-Region with a priority on the furthest behind in each context.

Human milk bank services are an essential component of a breastfeeding-friendly health system. Such services give small and sick babies access to the multiple benefits of breastmilk by providing safe donor human milk.

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.