This week I chose a topic that is both important for our future children but also very close to my heart; Breastfeeding. I breastfed both my children, and I was very lucky because I had enough milk and minimal problems. I think that to breastfeed is one of the most wonderful gifts of nature ever, however not everyone is as lucky as I. I researched a lot before I had my children and I also had planned out that I was going to nurse my children so I was ready when the time came. I took classes at my hospital and spoke with their lactation department. I think that part of my success was having so much information at the tip of my fingers.
My family was supportive, but they were supportive in an apprehensive way. I made it clear that I was going to nurse and they didn’t have a choice in it and that I wasn’t going to be ashamed either. I think that in the US we are encouraged to do what is best for our babies, but you better not let anyone see it. I think the biggest thing in the US is that people don’t think of breasts like they should… Mammary glands. They are more of a sex symbol and you can’t have that just flashing everyone. Sadly I think that is why so many of our young women just give up or don’t even try. I can say that over the last five years things have improved. When I started nursing my son you couldn’t find a nursing station anywhere. You were just supposed to go to the bathroom, sit on the toilet, and figure it out from there. When I had my daughter there seemed to be more popping up all over the place. I think that as a society we are starting to change. It is slow and steady. My hope is that in the next few years it will be taboo to feed our children formula unless you medically can’t or there isn’t enough milk in your system.
In other countries it is vastly different from here. Many women nurse as long as their baby wants to, which is sometimes even to the age of 4 or 5. In many countries it is expected and frowned upon if you are not able. In several countries England, Scotland, and Ireland to name a few, it is illegal to ask a nursing mother to stop nursing in public. That is completely different than here, because if you aren’t covered completely in some parts of the US, the law will allow you to be arrested for indecent exposure. It isn't illegal to breastfeed in public however it is illegal to expose yourself in public. Women have been charged with this; however many times the charges are dropped. The point is that we shouldn't even bee bothered with this silliness because it is what is best for children. I personally think that whoever thought up that law was just one sex starved person because there is nothing sexual or indecent about breastfeeding.
I try whenever possible to influence others that I know to nurse. I will continue to do this but I will also have more reason to help others understand its importance and acceptance around the world.
I have included a link about breastfeeding in other countries.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for such a heartfelt posting!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you totally. People in this country look at breasts as a sex symbol, rather than a means of nutrition for babies. I, to breastfed, but unlike you, I was only able to breastfeed for a little over a month. My daughter was such a rare exception to breast milk. We actually found out she was allergic to the proteins in my milk. Very odd, but that is what we found out!
From the very beginning I was going to nurse. It appalled me at the people in my own family who thought that was "gross" or "disgusting." I didn't care because I wanted to do what was best for my baby.
I think it is wonderful other countries do not allow women to be arrested or charged for nursing in public. Women should not have to be ashamed of feeding their child, or have to go to a public restroom to do this.
Thank you again for such a great post!!
Susan