How do we support and encourage breastfeeding, without subjecting those who are unable, or choose not to, to shame and guilt?
To help address this ‘Breastfeeding Dilemma’, the University is hosting two special virtual workshops on Tuesday 2 August at 10:00 and 16:00 respectively. The free workshops are timed to coincide with World Breastfeeding Week (1 – 7 August).
You can register your place in advance by clicking here (booking is not essential). To take part on the day of the workshops, please click here.
Academics, policy makers, medical professionals, parental support organisations, members of the media, mothers and members of the public will come together to address the dilemma. They will explore the philosophical mistakes in the way we talk and think about infant feeding choices, and the impact pressure to breastfeed can have on maternal health and the experience of new motherhood.
Dr Fiona Woollard, Associate Professor of Philosophy who is leading the workshops, said:
“The Breastfeeding Dilemma arises because of two facts. There is growing recognition of the benefits of breastfeeding, leading to an influential support movement. This is good. However, many mothers now report an overbearing pressure to breastfeed. If they decide not to breastfeed, they feel required to repeatedly justify this decision – to medical professionals, friends, relatives and even strangers. Many women who attempt to breastfeed and are unable to do so report encountering similar judgement while struggling with their own guilt. Occurring when women are highly vulnerable, this can have devastating effects.
“On the other hand, many women who want to breastfeed are let down by lack of skilled help, information and social support. Eight out of 10 women who stop in the first six weeks would have liked to continue for longer.”