Your world gets taken over by the baby, and you become mum and that is your sole purpose… ’cause all you do is constantly breastfeed, and I felt like that was all I was—A nursing mother
The notion that “true mothers breastfeed exclusively” is a pervasive and damaging myth that has been perpetuated for too long. This phrase, often masked as concern for the baby’s well-being and health, ends up alienating and shaming mothers who are unable to breastfeed exclusively. It is also largely inaccurate. While experts believe that breast milk is the best nutritional choice for infants, the instant formula is a healthy alternative that provides babies with the all nutrients they need to grow.
According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), breastfeeding is a simple, cost-effective, and natural way to give infants the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. While the narrative of exclusive breastfeeding prioritises the needs of babies over their mothers, it also ignores the importance of support for mothers who choose not to breastfeed exclusively or are unable to do so.
The origin of the myth
The idea that “true mothers breastfeed exclusively” is a relatively recent phenomenon, dating back to the 1990s and early 2000s. During this time, breastfeeding advocacy groups and health organisations like the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) began to promote the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life.
While the intention behind this campaign was to encourage and support breastfeeding mothers, it inadvertently created a culture of guilt and shame around formula feeding and supplemental breastfeeding. Throughout a woman’s pregnancy, healthcare providers often ask whether or not she plans to breastfeed and provide her with information about the benefits of breastfeeding. The consistent message is that “breast is best.”
“Breastfeeding is not always smooth sailing; there’s the struggle with clogged ducts, timing life around feedings, and pumping for when I’m at work.” – Mandy Moore
The struggles of exclusive breastfeeding
While the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding are well-documented, the reality is that many mothers face significant challenges in achieving exclusive breastfeeding. Some common struggles include latching difficulties, nipple soreness, and low milk supply. Additionally, mothers may face societal and cultural barriers, such as the lack of support from family and friends, inadequate maternity leave policies, and public breastfeeding stigma.
As a result, being a nursing mother today often seems like facing a barrage of opinions and judgments about your body, choices, and health under constant scrutiny from everyone. Being subjected to this treatment often takes a mental and emotional toll on mothers and adversely affects the body’s ability to produce milk.
For mothers who are unable to breastfeed exclusively, these challenges can be overwhelming and lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and inadequacy.
“Giving birth, then going back to work and breastfeeding, like — holy crap! This is what women do? Oh my God!” – Katty Perry
Promoting a culture of support and inclusivity
Rather than shame women who choose not to breastfeed or are unable to, we must create a supportive and non-judgmental environment for all mothers. Instead of perpetuating the narrative that “true mothers breastfeed exclusively,” we must recognise that every mother’s journey is unique and that breastfeeding is just one aspect of caring for a baby.
We must support and empower mothers to make informed choices about their breastfeeding journey, without fear of judgment or criticism. Doing so can promote a culture of inclusivity, compassion, and understanding, where every mother feels valued, respected, and supported.
