Breastfeeding Practices in France

I decided to research the breastfeeding practices in France. Surprisingly so, breastfeeding is strongly discouraged in this country. France has the lowest breastfeeding rate in the western world. Breastfeeding – particularly after two or three months – is regarded in France as something akin to drinking your own urine.The author of the article, Fiachra stated, "As a gynaecologist reminded a friend of mine the day she confirmed her pregnancy: "Your breasts are for your husband, not your baby."(Gibbons, 2011).

I knew that the people in France place sex and body physique at a high degree however a mother should not have to compromise the health and nourishment of her baby. No woman should feel like she has to compare making the decision to breastfeed her baby to drinking her own urine. It was also mentioned that if a woman chooses to breastfeed her baby, it is a possibility that it will send her companion into the arms of either of mistresses or gay colleagues(Gibson, 2011).How ignorant is that?!?

I didn't realize that breastfeeding in France is a no-no and if the mother decides to do it, she is ridiculed. What a shame!!  I am grateful for the freedom that the United States gives me everyday. I am free to make certain decisions without someone dictating to me what I should or should not do.

Reference:

Gibbons, F. (2011, April 1). In France, Breast is definitely not best. The Guardian. Retrieved from
               http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/apr/01/france-breast-breastfed-baby-death