Could donor milk give late preterm babies a healthier start than formula?
NCT ID NCT03220282
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study compares banked donor breast milk to preterm formula for late preterm infants (born at 34–36 weeks) who need extra nutrition while their mothers' milk supply increases. Researchers will track the babies' weight gain and analyze their gut bacteria to see which supplement supports healthier growth and microbial balance. The goal is to determine whether donor milk should be offered more widely to this group.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
donor breast milk
What this could lead to
If donor milk helps late preterm babies grow and develop healthy gut bacteria, it could become a standard supplement for these infants.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage study with only 48 babies, so results may not apply to all preterm infants. Donor milk is pasteurized and may lack some nutrients found in fresh mother's milk.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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University of California, San Francisco Medical Center
San Francisco, California, 94122, United States