Maternal Guilt: How to Promote Breastfeeding without Pressure on Women

Abstract

Breastfeeding promotion traditionally focuses on the health benefits for infants and their mothers. This model has been dismissed by some feminist critics as paternalistic and blaming for mothers who fail to breastfeed or opt for formula feeding. This article reviews the feeling of guilt in relation to breastfeeding, as well as the possible factors that promote it. We propose a feminist model of breastfeeding support that recognizes the complexity of the breastfeeding experience, that reports its benefits and the many difficulties that mothers have to face. We recommend addressing the sexual nature of breastfeeding, to advocate for pleasure in lactating, to offer care for maternal mental health in the postpartum period, including fathers and to promote policies to support the care of infants and their mothers and the independent training of health professionals.