Getting Respect When You're a First Generation Breastfeeder

We have all heard about the wonderful benefits of breastfeeding.  It has been proven to cement the bond between mother and child, enhance brain development, and boost a child's immune system.  It's the method of feeding a baby that nature intended, so it's hard to imagine that we might face opposition from older generations.  But it happens all too often.

Even though it didn't become commonplace until World War II, formula feeding has become the norm in many developed countries, including the United States.  The rise of bottle feeding was accompanied with a sentiment that it was a superior alternative to breastfeeding.  Later research proved that breastfeeding is best for babies, but in many ways society has yet to embrace the practice as the natural again.

The overwhelming acceptance of formula feeding has led to a persistent distaste for breastfeeding for some.  It is regaining popularity with today's mothers due to increased education about its benefits, yet those who grew up on the bottle and used it to feed their children often dismiss breastfeeding.  This often results in clashes between generations about breastfeeding's merits.

Educating Others About Your Choice

If you've decided to breastfeed your children, you are probably confident that you are doing the right thing.  But friends and family may try to persuade you that there are too many obstacles against breastfeeding mothers, or that the potential for feeding problems makes breastfeeding more trouble than it's worth.  There is no reason that we should have to defend our choice, but being armed with facts supporting the benefits of breastfeeding can help us explain to others why we think it is best.

Arguments alluding to the hardships that breastfeeding mothers face when trying to feed their babies in public are certainly valid.  In many states, restaurants, stores, and other public places can force nursing mothers to leave without facing legal repercussions.  But as a mother, your concern lies with what is best for your child, not what others think of the situation.  This fact is worth mentioning to concerned family members.

It's also true that some women face breastfeeding difficulties.  These include trouble getting the baby to latch on, inadequate milk production, and sore nipples.  But these problems are treatable, usually with nothing more than a little education on proper techniques.  With proper support, breastfeeding usually goes well.

Breastfeeding when your mother or grandmother is around is not always an easy thing to do, but it is important to stick to your guns.  In most cases, your family is simply misguided and concerned about your well being.  It is important to let them know that you appreciate their concern, but that doing what is best for your child is your primary concern.  They may or may not come around to your way of thinking, but at least they will be more likely to respect your decision.

To learn more about breastfeeding, check out these resources. If you need support, we have an attachment parenting group in the community!