In a world where breasts are everywhere, it seems ridiculous that public breastfeeding often sparks controversy. After all, breasts are celebrated in so many contexts, yet the moment they’re used for their true purpose—nourishing an infant—society’s judgment comes crashing down.
The cultural scrutiny surrounding breastfeeding can leave new mothers feeling anxious and uneasy, as they navigate a minefield of potential criticism, even from fellow moms. The persistent stories of women facing shame for breastfeeding in public only add to the anxiety, creating an atmosphere where many mothers feel they must hide.
In the short film “Embarrassed,” British poet and spoken-word artist Mia Rivers expresses the challenges that many mothers face. In just over three minutes, she encapsulates the awkwardness that accompanies public breastfeeding.
“I wrote this poem while waiting in a public restroom after my six-month-old fell asleep,” Rivers shared in the video description on her YouTube channel. “The first time I fed her in public, someone told me I should just stay home.” It’s absurd to suggest that mothers should be confined to their homes simply because babies need to eat every few hours.
Rivers reflects on her own experiences: “For six months, I resorted to feeding her in bathrooms when I was out alone, without the support of my partner or friends. I hate that I did that, but I was exhausted and felt awkward.” She raises an important point about the lack of representation of breastfeeding in media. “It’s strange that shows, movies, and advertisements rarely depict breastfeeding. In the U.S. and the UK, we seem so fearful of it.”
This fear is baffling. We can watch fictional characters face gruesome deaths or see intense action scenes, but a mother breastfeeding is often viewed as inappropriate. Isn’t it ironic that we’re desensitized to violence yet uncomfortable with something as natural as breastfeeding?
It’s disheartening that women are made to feel uneasy about such a vital biological function. During pregnancy, society emphasizes the importance of breastfeeding, yet when mothers decide to do it, they face stigma and shame. What gives?
When I breastfed my first child, I was overly cautious. While I didn’t shy away from feeding him in public, I covered up excessively, turning it into an uncomfortable experience for both of us. The societal pressure surrounding breastfeeding is palpable, which is why discussions about it are so necessary.
Kudos to all involved in this powerful video for shining a light on this important issue. We have far more pressing matters in the world than shaming mothers for their bodies.
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Summary:
A viral poem by Mia Rivers addresses the absurdity of public breastfeeding stigma, highlighting the contradictions in society’s views on breasts. While breasts are celebrated in many contexts, their use for feeding infants often invites judgment. Rivers’ heartfelt expression sheds light on the discomfort many mothers feel, advocating for change in how breastfeeding is perceived and represented in media.