In recent months, nursing mothers have faced criticism for being too engrossed in their phones during breastfeeding—coined as “brexting,” a term that honestly makes me cringe. Detractors argue that mothers become so distracted by their screens that they miss out on crucial bonding moments with their babies. Some even warn that excessive phone use could lead to moms overlooking their little one’s feeding cues.
As a breastfeeding mother and lactation consultant, I strongly disagree with these criticisms. Breastfeeding is a significant commitment and can often be challenging. From my perspective, new moms typically spend at least a quarter of their day nursing. So, if they choose to text or catch up on emails during that time, are they really sacrificing precious moments with their babies? I think not.
Sure, there might be extreme cases where mothers are glued to their phones the entire time—but for most of us, those hours are filled with smiles, sweet baby smells, and moments of awe over our little ones’ beauty. The reality is that breastfeeding can become monotonous, and it’s completely normal for moms to seek a little distraction. Plus, many of us have tasks to tackle. After all, what better opportunity to respond to a few messages than during those long stretches of nursing?
If moms internalize the notion that breastfeeding must be a flawless, sacred experience, they’ll likely end up feeling inadequate—it’s simply impossible for breastfeeding to be picture-perfect all the time. It should seamlessly integrate into our everyday lives, not become a chore to schedule for the sake of bonding or any idealized vision. The genuine connections happen naturally, even amidst the chaos of parenthood.
I can personally attest to multitasking while nursing. As a busy mom, I’ve done everything from answering the door for deliveries to managing bathroom breaks—all while breastfeeding. Here are some real-world examples of what nursing mothers juggle:
- I’ve nursed while caring for my other child, whether it was wiping noses or cleaning up after snack time.
- I’ve breastfed while grocery shopping, hiking, and even waiting in line at amusement parks.
- I’ve managed to nurse during bath time, while putting on makeup, and even while preparing meals (with baby safely away from the stove, of course).
I share these stories not to paint myself as a breastfeeding superhero but to remind mothers everywhere that nursing can and should fit into our daily lives. And for new moms, you’ll find your rhythm in no time—just give it a little patience.
So, the next time breastfeeding practices come under scrutiny (and they will), keep in mind: This journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about making breastfeeding work for you, your life, and your baby. Anyone who tries to impose their standards can kindly keep their opinions to themselves.
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Summary
It’s perfectly acceptable for nursing mothers to multitask, including texting, while breastfeeding. The belief that this detracts from bonding time is misguided. Breastfeeding should naturally fit into daily life, allowing mothers to manage their responsibilities without guilt.
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