Did you know that nearly 60% of mothers stop breastfeeding earlier than they intended (Odom et al., 2013)? While the health benefits of breastmilk are widely celebrated, the reality is that breastfeeding doesn’t always work out the way people expect. Between physical challenges, social pressure, and the emotional rollercoaster of the postpartum period, many mothers find themselves facing a difficult choice: continue at all costs, or prioritize their own mental well-being.
For decades, breastfeeding has been promoted as the gold standard for infant nutrition. Health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO, 2023) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (Meek & Noble, 2022) recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Research shows that breastmilk lowers the risk of infections, obesity, and chronic disease in children, while breastfeeding also benefits mothers by reducing the likelihood of breast and ovarian cancers (Victora et al., 2016; Chowdhury et al., 2015).
These are well-documented advantages – but what’s often missing from the conversation is the reality that breastfeeding can take a significant mental toll on mothers. For some, the cost to their psychological well-being outweighs the benefits.
Why Do Mothers Feel So Pressured to Breastfeed?
While public health campaigns have raised awareness of the benefits of breastmilk, they can also create a narrow definition of “good motherhood.” When breastfeeding doesn’t work out – due to pain, low supply, or other challenges – many women describe feelings of guilt and failure (Kukla, 2006).
Instead of being seen as one feeding choice among many, breastfeeding is often treated as the only acceptable option. This pressure can intensify the stress of the postpartum period, which is already demanding both physically and emotionally. Indeed, mothers may continue breastfeeding despite pain or exhaustion simply because they fear judgment or criticism from others.
Does Breastfeeding Affect Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) affects around 12–17% of new mothers worldwide (Shorey et al., 2018). The relationship between feeding and mental health is complex. For some women, breastfeeding is associated with lower depressive symptoms and may reduce stress and support bonding. But when difficulties arise, the risk of depression can increase. For example, Borra et al. (2015) highlighted that women who intended to breastfeed but could not were at heightened risk of PPD. The common thread here is not breastfeeding itself, but the mismatch between expectations and reality, combined with external and internal pressure.
Is Formula Feeding a Safe Alternative?
The “Fed is Best” approach argues that the ultimate goal is a nourished baby and a healthy mother, regardless of feeding method. Formula feeding may not carry all the immunological benefits of breastmilk, but it can reduce stress and support maternal well-being when breastfeeding becomes overwhelming (Fallon et al., 2016).
This reframing matters because maternal well-being has long-term consequences for both mother and child. A mother who feels emotionally stable and supported is better positioned to nurture her baby, build a secure attachment, and cope with the demands of parenting.
What Should We Really Focus On?
Breastfeeding offers undeniable health benefits. But it is not the only path to raising a healthy child, and it should not come at the expense of maternal mental health. By acknowledging the pressures new mothers face, recognizing the link between feeding struggles and postpartum depression, and normalizing formula as a valid alternative, we create a healthier, more balanced narrative.
In the end, what matters most is that babies are fed, cared for, and loved – and that mothers are supported in making the choices that safeguard their own well-being.
To meet with a professional psychologist or counsellor, call The Other Clinic at 8809 0659 or email us hello@theotherclinic.sg.
References
Borra, C., Iacovou, M., & Sevilla, A. (2014). New evidence on breastfeeding and Postpartum Depression: The importance of understanding Women’s intentions. Maternal and Child Health Journal, 19(4), 897–907. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-014-1591-z
Chowdhury, R., Sinha, B., Sankar, M. J., Taneja, S., Bhandari, N., Rollins, N., Bahl, R., & Martines, J. (2015). Breastfeeding and maternal health outcomes: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Acta Paediatrica, 104(S467), 96–113. https://doi.org/10.1111/apa.13102
Fallon, V., Komninou, S., Bennett, K. M., Halford, J. C., & Harrold, J. A. (2016). The emotional and practical experiences of formula‐feeding mothers. Maternal and Child Nutrition, 13(4). https://doi.org/10.1111/mcn.12392
Kukla, R. (2006). Ethics and ideology in breastfeeding advocacy campaigns. Hypatia, 21(1), 157–180. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1527-2001.2006.tb00970.x
Meek, J. Y., & Noble, L. (2022). Policy Statement: Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk. PEDIATRICS, 150(1). https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2022-057988
Odom, E. C., Li, R., Scanlon, K. S., Perrine, C. G., & Grummer-Strawn, L. (2013). Reasons for earlier than desired cessation of breastfeeding. PEDIATRICS, 131(3), e726–e732. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2012-1295
Shorey, S., Chee, C. Y. I., Ng, E. D., Chan, Y. H., Tam, W. W. S., & Chong, Y. S. (2018). Prevalence and incidence of postpartum depression among healthy mothers: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 104, 235–248. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2018.08.001
Victora, C. G., Bahl, R., Barros, A. J. D., França, G. V. A., Horton, S., Krasevec, J., Murch, S., Sankar, M. J., Walker, N., & Rollins, N. C. (2016). Breastfeeding in the 21st century: epidemiology, mechanisms, and lifelong effect. The Lancet, 387(10017), 475–490. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(15)01024-7
World Health Organization. (2023). Infant and young child feeding. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infant-and-young-child-feedin