Skin may have a stretched out look when milk-producing structures shrink
Traumatic nursing experiences are the reason we must continue to promote it.
Any mention of breastfeeding reminds mothers of anxiety and lack of support. It reminds them of their determination to do what had been promised to them as simple, enjoyable and the right way to feed their baby.
It reminds mothers of the heartbreak they felt as they stopped breastfeeding before they were anywhere near ready .
80% of mothers who stop breastfeeding in the first six weeks are not ready to do so, and stop because breastfeeding has become seemingly impossible for them.
Breastfeeding should not be so difficult for so many and should only be impossible for a very, very small minority of mothers. However, while society appears to promote breastfeeding, there are actually numerous barriers ranging from formula milk adverts to a lack of community support, that ultimately make breastfeeding feel impossible.
Mothers need support
Mothering is not valued or supported. Instead weight loss is celebrated, tips on reviving your sex life are published, and the focus is on “getting your life back” post-pregnancy. Celebrities are snapped back in their jeans and out partying a week after having a baby. “Normal” mothers meanwhile are ridiculed and criticised for simply trying to feed their hungry baby in public.
Most breastfeeding problems are created by a society that is not breastfeeding friendly: the actions of others are responsible for poor breastfeeding rates and the trauma of mothers. And we must change this.
Choose the right support
