Milk donors

[mangomadness]

Has anybody become a milk donor? I'm quite interested in becoming one, have read about it, but was wondering what people's personal experiences were. Such as, was there lots of pressure from the bank, how easy did you find it etc. My reasons are that I produce loads of milk and I don't want to waste it if it can help other babies. I'm comfortable breastfeeding and pumping.

Hi, I just started donating.

I found the bank a but unresponsive when I first got in contact but it's been fine since I was accepted and they have replied to any questions pretty quickly etc.

I haven't found it too onerous to be honest - I pump once a day (when DCs are asleep) and have achieved my aim of 100ml per session. I don;t do it every day but try to do so. The worst but about it is washing and sterilising the pump but it only takes 5 minutes so that's not so bad really!

I am donating because I had a terrible time establishing BF this time round and got to the point where my supply dwindled to practically nothing because of baby's tongue tie and I was about to have to start formula feeding - we somehow managed to turn things around but I felt so awful about the prospect of giving my tiny baby formula and I wanted to help others who faced the same.

No pressure from the bank - they do ask that I have 2 litres if I want it to be collected which is fine with me. I haven't decided how long I will keep going for but I know that the milk before 6 months is the most valuable to them.

All in all, I would say go for it!

I think I will! DD had thrush so I had to pump to relieve as she was just grazing, and I'd fill a bottle from one boob in a few mins so reckon I'll be ok. I just really like the thought of being able to help others. Find the whole breastmilk thing pretty amazing as well to be honest!