17 Jul Mum-Turned-Engineer Creates Breastfeeding Monitor to Reassure New Parents
For many new parents, the biggest challenge of breastfeeding isn’t the latch—it’s the not knowing.
New Aussie Invention Tracks Milk Intake in Real Time
A Monash University engineer and mum has created a smart device that removes the guesswork, measuring how much milk a baby drinks in real time. Currently being finalised for commercialisation, the AI-powered Infafeed monitor was born from Dr Fae Marzbanrad’s own experience as a first-time mum.
“My baby wasn’t putting on enough weight, which was a stressful and difficult experience,” said Dr Marzbanrad, head of the Biomedical Signal Processing Research Lab at Monash. “I found this was common in my mother’s group too—so I developed a solution, and many mums I know are now waiting for it and willing to pay for it.”
Solving a Common Breastfeeding Worry
Perceived insufficient milk supply (PIMS) is one of the most common reasons Australian mums stop breastfeeding before six months, even though they may be producing enough. Studies show nearly half of breastfeeding mothers cite PIMS as the reason they stopped.
The Infafeed monitor is designed to offer peace of mind. A small sensor, placed on the baby’s neck during feeding, uses AI to detect and measure the amount of milk consumed, non-invasively and in real time.
Tested, Trusted, and Close to Market
In a recent pilot study with 24 newborns, the device accurately tracked milk intake, offering new insights for parents and clinicians alike. It’s now close to commercialisation and already attracting strong interest from health professionals and parents.
Designed with Parents in Mind
Dr Marzbanrad developed Infafeed alongside Associate Professor Atul Malhotra, a neonatologist at Monash Children’s Hospital. The device could be especially useful for preterm or low birth weight babies transitioning from tube to breast or bottle feeding.
“This tool gives parents accurate information and greater confidence, while helping babies gain weight effectively,” said Associate Professor Malhotra.
Breastfeeding Support Just Got Smarter
With larger studies underway, Infafeed could soon become a go-to tool for new families, supporting breastfeeding continuation and reducing unnecessary supplementation, all while helping parents feel more confident and in control.
