https://medical.advancedresearchpublications.com/index.php/IntlJ-Nursing-MidwiferyResearch Advanced Research Publications (ADR) en-US International Journal of Nursing & Midwifery Research (E-ISSN: 2455-9318) 2455-9318 https://medical.advancedresearchpublications.com/index.php/IntlJ-Nursing-MidwiferyResearch/article/view/4704 <p>This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the storage practices, nutritional integrity, and challenges faced by lactating mothers who express and store breast milk in different community health centers in Coimbatore. A total of 30 lactating mothers were selected using purposive sampling. Data was collected through a 5-point likert scale statements, focusing on storage practices, nutritional integrity, and challenges faced during the storage process. <strong><em>Aim &amp;Objectives</em></strong><em>: </em>The primary aim of the study is to assess the knowledge and practices of lactating mothers regarding breast milk storage and to analyze common challenges faced by mothers in expressing and storing breast milk.<strong><em> Results: </em></strong>The results showed that the majority of participants exhibited excellent storage practices, with a mean score of 31.07 (indicating scores within the good to excellent range). Nutritional integrity was moderate, with a mean score of 22.53. The challenges faced by mothers were moderate, with a mean score of 25.87. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing education on nutritional integrity and addressing the challenges faced by lactating mothers in expressing and storing breast milk.<strong><em> Conclusion: </em></strong>Lactating mothers in Coimbatore exhibit good breast milk storage practices; however, there is room for improvement in maintaining the nutritional quality of stored milk. Despite facing moderate challenges, the participants adhere to acceptable storage methods. There is a clear need for community health initiatives to provide ongoing support and education on optimal breast milk storage and preserving its nutritional integrity. Addressing these challenges will help enhance the overall breastfeeding experience for mothers.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><em>Keywords: </em></strong><em>Storage Practices, Nutritional integrity, storage of breast milk</em></p> Jebakumari Sutha A Sasirekha K Esther Rakel Copyright (c) 2025 Jebakumari Sutha A, Sasirekha K, Esther Rakel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2025-09-24 2025-09-24 12 2 1 6