Characteristics of breastfeeding by adoptive mothers: Description of the phenomenon in Poland and worldwide

Abstract

The breastfeeding of adopted children is a rare phenomenon but one that deserves attention because of its potential benefits. The aim of this study was to gather information on the breastfeeding of adopted children in Poland and in other high-income countries and to identify its determinants. Milk banks, adoption centres and forums for breastfeeding mothers were surveyed. The research revealed a high level of interest in the issue among adoptive mothers and a simultaneous lack of information on the part of the employees of adoption centres and milk banks. The study concluded that: (1) adoptive mothers are interested in breastfeeding their adoptive children. They should therefore be equipped with the relevant knowledge and tools to enable them to try to breastfeed; (2) the prevalence of adoptive breastfeeding is similar in Poland and worldwide, but in other developed countries the necessary information is more widely available; (3) milk banks in Poland and around the world do not include adopted children among their beneficiaries; and (4) the idea of adoptive breastfeeding is not promoted by Polish adoption centres, so it is essential to start popularising it.