Does Breastfeeding Advocacy Really Make a Difference?

Nursing moms and babies have needed someone to stand up for them for a long time. La Leche League just celebrated its 50th anniversary. But has it made a difference?

I've been advocating for breastfeeding since I started nursing my first baby nine years ago. Believe it or not, until that time, I wasn't really aware of the cultural taboo against breastfeeding. I quickly discovered, however, how difficult it can be to meet a new baby's needs for frequent feedings while shielding the activity from the view of whoever might disapprove.

Nursing my baby at home was so sweet and relaxing for both of us, but trying to feed her anywhere else was a struggle and a stress for both of us. I had feelings of sadness and resentment over the disparaging looks from strangers, as if nursing my baby was "dirty" or wrong.

Indecent Exposure Exemp, But Does it Matter?

Even here in Seattle, a woman reported me to the police for indecent exposure while breastfeeding. I knew that breastfeeding was exempt, but I learned that even for the non-lactating public, indecent exposure is only criminal if a "victim" complains.

Normalized Prejudice

No one is surprised to read about a new nursing mom being asked to get off a bus or leave a restaurant, store, or beach. We advocates and nursing mothers bond together to support one another while other moms criticize us (It is usually other women who complain about nursing in public.) Are we really making a difference for subsequent generations of new mothers and babies?

Breast is Best, But Does it Matter?

Breastfeeding does provide optimal targeted nutrition (different for boys and girls), immune support (80% immunological ingredients), allergy, illness, and disease prevention (even breast cancer and depression prevention for moms). But that's all beside the point. Shouldn't we be allowed to feed our babies in whichever way we choose (without scorn)?

I get discouraged. I wonder if we're doing more than supporting fellow pariahs. I wonder if the cultural powers are winning a campaign to force baby formula (bottles, storage, etc....) purchases? I wonder if the guilty mother masses are winning their shame campaign?

I'm not going to give up speaking up and standing up for breastfeeding moms and babies, but I do get discouraged and disheartened.

Originally published on Examiner.com.