Research-backed
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Breastfeeding has been a part of motherhood since the beginning of time. But over the last few years, it has sparked a lot of discussion and conversation. The numerous benefits breastfeeding has on babies and mothers are better known these days. Rallies and campaigns are conducted to promote the benefits of breastfeeding and breast milk. Pumping rooms have become more common and people have become more considerate and open to natural feeding. While these things are good, several women who are unable to breastfeed end up feeling incompetent, lost, or even judged. Some women cannot breastfeed, but they cannot be blamed for it. However, the pro-breastfeeding culture puts enormous pressure on these mothers, which might affect their mental health.
Breastfeeding has several benefits for the mother and baby. It helps boost immunity in babies and lowers the rate of infant mortality. When a mother gets sick, her body produces antibodies to help her get better. These antibodies enter her milk, which is passed on to the baby during breastfeeding. These antibodies protect the baby from illnesses and strengthen their immune system. The benefits of breastfeeding last even after your babies grow up into teenagers and adults (1). Because of all these positive effects of breastfeeding, research says that mothers who cannot do so feel inadequate and anxious (2).
The Risks On Mental Health
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Mothers always want what’s best for their children. Therefore, when they are unable to breastfeed, they tend to feel anxious and depressed. Research says that the psychological pressure on mothers who are unable to breastfeed contributes to postpartum depression and stress (3). Many women choose not to breastfeed for several reasons, and others cannot even if they want to. Either way, because of the norm that women are supposed to breastfeed, it leaves mothers feeling inadequate and guilty, which affects their mental health (4).
Every woman is unique, and it is upto them to decide whether they want to breastfeed. Some women might choose not to because of their busy lifestyle; others might choose not to do it simply because they don’t want to. But some women cannot due to certain medications, postpartum complications, medical history, etc. The decision not to breastfeed could be medical, physical, or personal, but women should not have to feel guilty or judged. It takes a toll on their mental health and can lead to depression (5).
Judgement Free Environment
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Women go through a lot in their lifetime. Right from menstruation to pregnancy and childbirth to menopause, women’s bodies are continually changing and surviving significant milestones. It is tough as it is, and it is unfair to add on to the difficulties. As a society, it’s time we support their choices and make life easier for them because biology sure has not been kind to them. It is preposterous to pressure women into following certain norms and to expect them to be a certain way. It takes a toll on their mental health and adds unnecessary expectations on them.
When we speak of empowerment, this is what we mean. Let women choose what they want without having to justify or feel guilty about the choice. It’s her body, and only she has the right to choose what’s best for her. While there have been many changes for women from the past, there is still a long way to go. When society starts to accept the choices women make without judging them for it, that is when women are truly empowered. Comment below and let us know your thoughts on this article.
