Deciphering a sensitive subject, at the heart of the daily lives of many mothers.
At Milky Hour, we celebrate all forms of motherhood. And if there's one topic that really hits home with new mothers, it's breastfeeding. We encourage it, we support it, we educate it... But sometimes, unwittingly, we also confine it .
Because beyond the benefits and personal choices, breastfeeding can become a real source of pressure , even suffering. So, between benevolent injunctions and guilty looks, what becomes of each woman's freedom in this very intimate choice?
🤍 Breastfeeding: a natural act... but not always easy
It is often said: "It's natural."
Yes. But "natural" doesn't mean "easy." For many mothers, the early days of breastfeeding can be chaotic. Pain, doubts, a crying baby, cracked nipples, engorgement, lack of sleep... and a body still recovering.
But in the face of these difficulties, the messages received are sometimes violent:
"You must persevere,"
"It's best for your baby,"
"You're not going to give up so quickly, are you?"
And the mother, already exhausted, finds herself alone facing a dilemma: hold on at the risk of forgetting herself, or stop with the weight of guilt.
💢 An insidious, often silent pressure
Today, we're hearing more and more about "mom guilt"—that constant maternal guilt that creeps in everywhere. And breastfeeding is often its first playground.
There are those who cannot breastfeed, or who do not want to.
Those who breastfeed, but not long enough according to some.
Those who breastfeed for a long time, and who are treated as crazy or excessively clingy.
Those who breastfeed in public and are looked at askance.
Those who express their milk, who blend, who wean earlier…
No matter the choice, it always seems to require justification. As if each option comes with its own set of criticisms ready to arise in family conversations, at daycare, or on social media.
📣 A personal choice, not a moral duty
It is essential to remember one thing: the choice to breastfeed does not make a good or bad mother.
Breastfeeding is not a measure of love, attachment, or parenting competence. It is not a test to be passed , nor a contract to be signed.
Support should always aim to:
- Support without forcing
- Inform without imposing
- Valuing each journey, in its nuances and needs
Because what's good for a baby is also a healthy mother. A mother who is confident, respected, and free to make her own decisions.
Breaking down injunctions, promoting real support
At Milky Hour, we deeply believe that every journey is legitimate.
Our mission isn't to dictate how to do things, but to offer tools, comfort, and a listening ear . Because behind every breastfeeding story, there's a story of connection. And that connection doesn't depend on a breast or a bottle—it depends on gentleness, patience, and presence.
So if you are reading these lines and doubting your choice, remember:
👉 You don't have to be perfect.
👉 You have the right to change your mind.
👉 Above all, you have the right to do what is good for you, for your baby, for your balance.
💬 In conclusion: take back power over your own choice
Let's stop telling women what they "should" do.
Let's help them do what they want to do.
Without fear of being judged. Without shame in stopping. Without having to explain.
Because deep down, true freedom in motherhood begins there:
👉 When we support every woman, no matter what path she chooses.
👉 When we transform pressure into power.
And you, how did your own breastfeeding journey go? At Milky Hour, we love hearing your stories. Share your experience in the comments or via private message—you're not alone.