From the 1 to 7 October it is celebrated in Italy World Breastfeeding Weekan annual event that invites us to reflect on the importance of supporting parents in a moment that is as delicate as it is powerful. This anniversary is not only an opportunity to promote the benefits of breastfeeding, but also to open an honest and non-judgmental dialogue about an experience that touches deep chords on a personal, psychological and relational level. In a world that often imposes ideal models, it is essential to remember that there is no single “right” way to experience this path. Breastfeeding is an intimate and subjective experience, made up of contrasting emotions, doubts, joys and hardships.
At Evidence Network we believe that psychological well-being is the basis for facing every stage of life with awareness and serenity, and parenting is no exception. For this reason, on the occasion of Breastfeeding Week, we want to explore this theme by going beyond the purely nutritional aspect.
Breastfeeding, in fact, is a profoundly significant moment in the life of a mother and her child, which cannot be reduced to a merely biological act. It involves psychological, relational and social aspects that influence the experience. Talking about breastfeeding means recognizing the freedom of a maternal choice, freeing the mother from the weight of external expectations and enhancing the possibility of receiving adequate support, both practical and emotional.
Social pressure and expectations: the impact on the psyche
Society often attributes a normative value to breastfeeding, sometimes loading it with ideals of “good motherhood”. This can generate feelings of inadequacy, guilt or frustration in mothers when breastfeeding is difficult or impossible. Some studies show how social pressure can contribute to experiences of stress, anxiety or postpartum depression (Brown, 2016). It is therefore essential to propose a culture of support, rather than judgement, so that women can live this experience without conditioning.
The importance of listening to your body
Every breastfeeding experience is unique. Listening to her own body allows the mother to recognize her own limits and resources, developing greater awareness of her own abilities. This self-listening promotes maternal self-efficacy, a psychological construct that positively influences adjustment to parenting (Dennis, 1999).
Psychological and relational benefits of breastfeeding
Breastfeeding not only provides nourishment, but strengthens the mother-infant bond through skin-to-skin contact, mutual regulation and activation of neurobiological attachment systems. The production of oxytocin – called the love hormone – during breastfeeding is associated with reduced stress and increased psychological well-being (Uvnas-Moberg et al., 2020). Furthermore, shared moments of intimacy contribute to building a secure base in terms of child-parent attachment.
Common doubts and professional support
Many mothers wonder about the quantity of milk, the quality of nutrition or the possibility of reconciling breastfeeding with returning to work. Professional support – midwives, lactation consultants, perinatal psychologists – represents a fundamental resource for reducing anxiety and uncertainty. Recent studies confirm how the early intervention of professional figures reduces the risk of early abandonment of breastfeeding and improves maternal emotional well-being (McFadden et al., 2017).
The maternal and paternal experience towards breastfeeding
Breastfeeding involves the entire family unit. For the mother it can represent a moment of intimacy and satisfaction, but also of fatigue and vulnerability. For the father, however, the fear of exclusion or difficulty in finding an active role may emerge. Perinatal psychology underlines the importance of validating both experiences, encouraging a couple’s dialogue that allows them to share emotions, difficulties and expectations (Maycock et al., 2013).
Role of the father or family in supporting the psychological health of the mother
The support of your partner and family network has a decisive impact on the breastfeeding experience. Fathers can contribute with practical gestures (care of the house, management of meals, support during night feedings) and with emotional support, which strengthens maternal resilience and prevents depressive experiences. When the mother perceives a welcoming and non-judgmental environment, her psychological health benefits, promoting a positive relational climate which is also reflected in the child’s development.
Conclusions
Breastfeeding is a complex experience that goes beyond nutrition. It is an intertwining of body, psyche and relationship that requires freedom of choice and support, rather than social pressures or expectations. Recognizing the role of maternal and paternal experiences, together with the importance of the family and professional network, represents the key to promoting peaceful and psychologically healthy breastfeeding.
