Long before baby formula made its debut, breastfeeding was the primary method for feeding infants.
Yet, this age-old practice came with its own set of challenges.
The recent baby formula shortage in the United States in 2022 highlighted how critical these challenges can be.
Challenges of Infant Feeding
Numerous factors, including supply chain disruptions, product recalls, labor shortages, and rising inflation, combined to create chaos in formula availability.
As a result, families relying on formula faced dire consequences.
Retailers struggled to keep up with the increased demand, leaving many parents in a state of panic as they searched for ways to ensure their babies received proper nutrition.
During this tumultuous time, well-meaning individuals often proposed a simple solution: go back to breastfeeding as the primary way to feed infants, just like in the past.
However, this suggestion overlooks the complexities of breastfeeding and the historical realities of infant mortality that many might not fully understand.
Historical Insights
To shed light on these misconceptions, Dr. Carla Cevasco, a historian from Rutgers University who specializes in infant feeding, took to social media.
Through a viral thread, she shared valuable insights aimed at correcting the common misbeliefs surrounding historical infant feeding practices.
Dr. Cevasco pointed out that the idea that all infants in ancient times were solely breastfed is far from accurate.
Throughout history, many situations have driven caregivers to look for alternatives to breastmilk.
Factors such as maternal mortality during childbirth, medical conditions affecting the birthing parent, or the urgent need to return to work shortly after giving birth all made breastfeeding impractical for many families.
Additionally, societal pressures and, in certain instances, restrictions imposed by partners or enslavers further complicated the ability to breastfeed.
Empathy and Support
Her exploration of these historical nuances encourages a more nuanced understanding of infant feeding practices.
By reflecting on the challenges faced in the past and recognizing those that persist today, we can foster empathy and support for all families as they navigate their unique paths through parenthood.
Source: Upworthy