Donating breast milk

It's a gift from the heart. Well, actually it's from an area more... above the heart. If you're nursing your baby, did you know you can also donate some of your breast milk to a milk bank? The donated breast milk will go to babies who, for one reason or another, don't have the option of nursing. The most common recipients are infants in the neo-natal intensive care unit. Premature and sick infants are 10 times more likely to acquire intestinal infections from formula. In addition, premature delivery can delay a mother's milk supply and it's best if the infants start on breast milk right away. Some things you should know:

• Breast milk is produced according to demand, so if you start pumping extra to donate your body will respond and produce more.
• To donate breast milk you cannot drink alcohol, smoke, use medications (over the counter or prescription), use herbal treatments, or take illegal drugs.
• You should check with your doctor before donating breast milk.

Your doctor may be able to put you in contact with the nearest milk bank. Otherwise, your local hospital will have information.