In a world where breasts are everywhere, it’s puzzling that public breastfeeding still stirs up controversy. Breasts are celebrated in media and advertisements, yet when they’re used for their intended purpose—feeding a child—society seems to recoil. This cultural contradiction leaves many mothers feeling judged and uncomfortable, even among their peers.
British poet and spoken-word artist Emma Langley bravely addresses the awkwardness surrounding public breastfeeding in her impactful short film “Embarrassed.” In a little over three minutes, she articulates the struggles that many mothers face. “I penned this poem in a public restroom while my baby was asleep,” Langley shared on her YouTube channel. “The first time I nursed her in public, someone suggested I should just stay home.” It’s absurd—new mothers are expected to be homebodies when their babies need nourishment every few hours.
For six months, Emma felt compelled to take her baby into restrooms to nurse, citing a lack of support from her partner or friends. “I hated that I did that, but I was exhausted and anxious,” she confessed. “What’s even more bizarre is how our media rarely portrays breastfeeding. It’s as if our culture is terrified of it.” It truly is strange. Why is breastfeeding absent from TV shows and commercials? We can watch violent scenes on TV but shy away from the sight of a breastfeeding mother.
Consider popular shows like The Walking Dead, where viewers are subjected to graphic violence and gore, yet a simple act of nourishment is deemed inappropriate. It’s a stark contrast—zombies devouring human flesh? Totally acceptable. A woman feeding her baby? Oh no, that’s too much!
This societal discomfort around breastfeeding not only undermines a woman’s natural instinct but also sends mixed messages. During pregnancy, women are inundated with the importance of breastfeeding, only to face stigma when they try to do it publicly. It’s a perplexing double standard.
When I nursed my first child, I was overly cautious, draping myself in wraps that turned into makeshift saunas for my baby. I was worried about exposing myself, despite being generally confident. The pressure of societal norms is real and it’s crucial to keep discussing the absurdity of this situation.
A big shout-out to everyone involved in bringing this video to life. We’ve got much bigger issues to tackle in the world—nipple visibility shouldn’t be one of them.
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In summary, the discomfort surrounding public breastfeeding needs to be reassessed. It’s time to normalize this essential act of motherhood and allow women to feed their children without fear of judgment.
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