Sunday, March 20, 2011

Compassion and Understanding

Many people know I am definitely a breastfeeding supporter, but recently I've been reminded of the importance of being a compassionate supporter.  By a compassionate supporter I mean realizing not all mothers can breastfeed the way they had hoped or wanted to.  I mean acknowledging that there are situations that lead a mother to stop before they or the baby are ready.  I mean listening to the stories of mothers without judgment. 

I have a friend who recently had to wean because she was on medications that would no longer allow safe milk for her baby.  The experience has been heartbreaking for my friend, and she feels inadequate.  She also wonders if mothers now judge her as she feeds her baby a bottle.  I believe that most mothers want to breastfeed their babies, and as a breastfeeding advocate I want to remember there is always a story behind the bottle that needs respect and understanding.  Feeding our children is a personal and unique experience.  All moms want the best for their babies, and if a mother who bottle feeds feels pressure or condemnation from breastfeeding mothers, then we have a long way to go.