The article reviews the scientific literature on the human milk microbiome, emphasizing its importance for infant health and development. Key points include: 1. **Bioactive Components**: Free human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are crucial as they serve as energy sources for beneficial intestinal microorganisms, promoting the growth of *Bifidobacterium*, *Lactobacillus*, and *Bacteroides*. 2. **Modulating Factors**: Maternal, perinatal, environmental, and cultural factors influence the breast milk microbiome. These include the mother's digestive tract, skin, and gastrointestinal tract, as well as the infant's oral cavity. 3. **Microbial Composition**: The human milk microbiome is diverse, with dominant genera such as *Streptococcus*, *Staphylococcus*, *Lactobacillus*, and *Bifidobacterium*. The composition varies with the stage of lactation and is influenced by factors like diet, medication, and physical activity. 4. **Geographical and Maternal Factors**: Geographical location and maternal health conditions, such as obesity and diseases, affect the microbiome. For example, rural women have higher levels of lactobacilli, while maternal obesity reduces microbial diversity. 5. **Perinatal Factors**: The method of delivery and duration of pregnancy significantly impact the infant's intestinal microbiota. Vaginal delivery leads to a higher colonization of *Lactobacillus* and *Prevotella*, while cesarean section results in a more skin-like microbiome. 6. **Health Implications**: The human milk microbiome plays a vital role in preventing infectious diseases, reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other health issues in infants. It also has long-term benefits for the mother, including reduced risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis. 7. **Research Gaps**: Despite advancements in molecular techniques, the study of the human milk microbiome remains limited. Further research is needed to understand the impact of various factors on the microbiome and its implications for infant health. The article highlights the need for continued research to optimize breastfeeding practices and support women during lactation, emphasizing the crucial role of midwives in promoting breastfeeding and addressing any challenges.The article reviews the scientific literature on the human milk microbiome, emphasizing its importance for infant health and development. Key points include: 1. **Bioactive Components**: Free human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are crucial as they serve as energy sources for beneficial intestinal microorganisms, promoting the growth of *Bifidobacterium*, *Lactobacillus*, and *Bacteroides*. 2. **Modulating Factors**: Maternal, perinatal, environmental, and cultural factors influence the breast milk microbiome. These include the mother's digestive tract, skin, and gastrointestinal tract, as well as the infant's oral cavity. 3. **Microbial Composition**: The human milk microbiome is diverse, with dominant genera such as *Streptococcus*, *Staphylococcus*, *Lactobacillus*, and *Bifidobacterium*. The composition varies with the stage of lactation and is influenced by factors like diet, medication, and physical activity. 4. **Geographical and Maternal Factors**: Geographical location and maternal health conditions, such as obesity and diseases, affect the microbiome. For example, rural women have higher levels of lactobacilli, while maternal obesity reduces microbial diversity. 5. **Perinatal Factors**: The method of delivery and duration of pregnancy significantly impact the infant's intestinal microbiota. Vaginal delivery leads to a higher colonization of *Lactobacillus* and *Prevotella*, while cesarean section results in a more skin-like microbiome. 6. **Health Implications**: The human milk microbiome plays a vital role in preventing infectious diseases, reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other health issues in infants. It also has long-term benefits for the mother, including reduced risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis. 7. **Research Gaps**: Despite advancements in molecular techniques, the study of the human milk microbiome remains limited. Further research is needed to understand the impact of various factors on the microbiome and its implications for infant health. The article highlights the need for continued research to optimize breastfeeding practices and support women during lactation, emphasizing the crucial role of midwives in promoting breastfeeding and addressing any challenges.