Breastfeeding – How to Handle Criticism

Attachment parenting is a new way of parenting, for example my parents who were teenagers in the 1970’s have never heard of this concept. Parenting has a way of changing with each generation. One thing that has not changed however is the so called taboo of breastfeeding. Women of past generations were taught that formula is the only breast milk. Others were working moms who felt that breastfeeding was not an available option to them. Unfortunately during those times the electric breast pump was not made available to them therefore formula was the easier route to take when feeding their baby. Even after all of our vast information and resources found on the internet, many people are still unsupportive in breastfeeding.

Since the 1970’s, breastfeeding has come a long way, but unfortunately the old way of thinking still exists. Today however, many women are more educated on the subject of breastfeeding through books, supportive organizations, message boards, the internet and from family and friends. However, breastfeeding criticism still exists among today’s present society. One of the best way to deal with this kind of criticism is to find out why they feel the way they do, perhaps this was taught during upbringing or the person just has personal issues with it, or maybe they think the idea of breastfeeding your baby is too primitive?

I trust that what you’ve read so far has been informative. The following section should go a long way toward clearing up any uncertainty that may remain.

Even in today’s modern society these feelings can still eventuate. Perhaps this person has never seen a women breastfeed their baby before and it makes them uncomfortable? Unfortunately, this happens among a lot of people. Often taking the time to find out the persons issues with breastfeeding will help them see that breastfeeding is a natural way of a mother bonding with her baby.

One way of dealing with criticism is to stay positive. From experience, it is hard to argue with someone who is positive and enthusiastic about breastfeeding. Smile a lot, even though this may be hard to do. Staying positive when speaking about breastfeeding is one way to spread the word. Educating others on breastfeeding is another way you can help society and refresh memory often times many women may be on the defensive end because they have failed at breastfeeding. While it may be difficult and sometimes that smile may be through gritted teeth, staying positive, educated on the subject and smiling a lot while on topic, maybe a way you can spread the word that breastfeeding can both be a positive and rewarding experience for both you and your baby.