When I welcomed my first child at the age of 24, breastfeeding was a given for me. I had immersed myself in research, fully aware of the benefits that breast milk provides, from antibodies to preventing ear infections. However, my journey was anything but smooth. My newborn struggled to latch, and once my milk came in, I faced painful engorgement that made nursing difficult. Despite cracked and bleeding nipples, I pressed on, convinced that to stop would be to fail my baby. No one reassured me that it would be okay to choose another path, leaving me to bear the weight of self-imposed pressure. In today’s world, especially during the COVID pandemic, many mothers are experiencing similar stress.
Breastfeeding can be challenging for numerous reasons, including inadequate support, limited access to resources, and lack of paid leave. In the U.S., mothers often return to work sooner than in other countries, and many workplaces lack suitable facilities for pumping. Additionally, the thought of carrying pumping equipment can be daunting.
Research throughout the pandemic has shed light on the transfer of COVID-19 antibodies through breast milk. A recent study by Dr. Sarah Bennett and her team found that 88% of breast milk samples from women who had recovered from COVID-19 contained IgA antibodies capable of neutralizing the virus. With the CDC’s latest guidance encouraging pregnant and breastfeeding women to get vaccinated, more mothers can potentially offer their babies this protective “liquid gold.”
While this news is promising, I can’t help but reflect on my own experiences. At 31, now a mother of three and more confident in my breastfeeding journey, I appreciate the added layer of protection that breast milk can provide. But my 24-year-old self, struggling with postpartum anxiety and physical pain, would likely have found this added pressure overwhelming.
Despite the medical community’s acknowledgment of the philosophy that “fed is best,” I can’t shake the feeling that there’s still an unspoken expectation surrounding breastfeeding. During my initial struggles, I was never offered formula as an option; instead, I was directed to a lactation consultant. Now, in a world where leaving home with a newborn feels more daunting, I can only imagine how challenging it is for new mothers during the pandemic, especially when appointments can take weeks.
It’s crucial to recognize that some mothers may choose not to breastfeed, or may not be able to, and that is a valid decision. However, the societal pressure to breastfeed is now intertwined with the anxiety of protecting our little ones from illness. These thoughts can consume new moms, particularly those grappling with postpartum depression or anxiety.
“If my baby gets sick and I didn’t breastfeed, will it be my fault?” “What if I quit too soon and regret it later?” “Every drop counts.” These questions weigh heavily on us. Although the risk of severe illness in children under 12 is lower than in adults, the stakes feel high, and the pressure seems relentless.
As soon as we become parents, our priorities shift dramatically. We often lose sight of our own needs while obsessively focusing on our children’s well-being. While I appreciate the scientific information surrounding COVID-19, vaccines, and breastfeeding, I believe mothers need space to breathe. We’re already navigating overwhelming challenges and doing our best.
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Summary:
The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the pressures surrounding breastfeeding for new mothers. While many are aware of its benefits, challenges such as lack of support and workplace accommodations contribute to the stress. Research shows breast milk can provide COVID-19 antibodies, adding another layer of pressure for mothers to continue breastfeeding. It’s important to acknowledge that every mother’s journey is unique, and the choice to breastfeed or not should be respected without added anxiety.
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