Breastfeeding - Cultural Reasons For Not Breastfeeding

It is very hard to separate cultural pressures from personal feelings. However, some of us might feel that we are not free to breastfeed even if we would like to. When this happens, it is clear that there is a cultural pressure on us. If, however, you feel that you don't want to breastfeed, it might be a good idea to ponder whether this is really your own feeling, or you are just going along with what the society imposes on you. If you decide it's the latter, you might choose to stand against it. Alternatively, you might decide to go along with the pressure and bottle-feed, but now you'll be feeling angry rather than guilty. If enough of us get angry, things might change. If many of us feel guilty, we'll just suffer.
    Here are some types of cultural pressure that a breastfeeding mother might be subject to. Follow the links to gather some information about each issue. If you decide to stand up for your right to care for your baby in the best possible way, it might help to possess the knowledge offered here.

• You can't breastfeed in public, because you are embarrassed, or because your mate won't allow you to.
• Some friend or family member disapproves of your breastfeeding
  • They might say that the baby will become too dependent on the mother
  • They might say the baby will develop sexual problems as a result of extended breastfeeding.
• All your friends, relatives, and neighbors bottle-feed. You don't want to be different.
• Bottle-feeding seems more modern than breastfeeding.
• Your pediatrician (or hospital) seems to be promoting bottle-feeding.
• See also: miscellaneous reasons for not breastfeeding.

• Reasons for not breastfeeding

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