When we see an infant being bottle fed or a 2-year-old being breastfed, eyebrows are raised and questions raised by one and all. And breastfeeding is public is something that is not entirely accepted in our country today
We at KSP asked moms to write in and share their experiences of being mom-shamed, judged and ridiculed and we have received numerous responses from moms who have been victims, but decided to march ahead and pursue their dreams. Today’s story is about being judged for long-term breastfeeding and nursing
Scroll down to read this mom- Mansi Sharma Mittal’s take on mom shaming and why we must rise above these judgements.
Society's take on breastfeeding in public:
Frankly, the stigma associated with it hurts me. 'Coz breastfeeding is the most natural thing to do. It’s the way nature designed it. In fact, breastfeeding mothers must be respected and made to feel comfortable.
On Long-term breastfeeding:
I do get a mix of reactions when people hear about my long-term breastfeeding. Sometimes people are surprised/shocked and some are in awe and actually congratulate me for being able to pull through for so long. Honestly, breastfeeding is the best thing that happened to me. I cannot thank my stars enough for making my baby and me physically capable to breastfeed. I call it my magic wand!
How family/strangers react to breastfeeding in public:
No one ever stopped me, but initially, people (including family) got a little uncomfortable when I used to pull out my feeding cover and feed wherever and whenever, but after nursing my older daughter for 2.5 years and now nursing my younger one who is 1, I think they have eventually come around. Or maybe, I have gotten very comfortable and don’t bother about the discomfort I see in other people’s eyes. My baby’s needs come first and honestly what's wrong in feeding your child?
Word of advice for fellow moms who are breastfeeding:
Being a new mother is such an overwhelming experience. One goes through a lot physically, mentally, emotionally. And imagine adding to that, the pressures of being homebound? No.
Breastfeeding is your and your baby’s right. Do it with pride. Bring out your cape (read feeding cover), know that you are a superwoman and just feed.
Mommies- if you are inspired to share your experiences on being mommy-shamed or judged- here's what you need to do. Write to us about your experiences on being judged/mommy-shamed and how you reacted to it.
- Click here to share your experience right away.
- Don't forget to add a few lines about yourself, your social handles and a pic (in the above format- with the #JudgeMeNot placard)
- We would be giving you super moms a shout out on our social platforms and tagging you.
Let's do this for our tribe and put an end to mom-shaming once and for all. #SimplifyingParenting
Rushita Sheth
Mansi Zaveri
KSP Team
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