The Misunderstood Reality of Breastfeeding Toddlers.

A mother shares her experience of being shamed for breastfeeding her toddler in public. Despite the known nutritional and health benefits of extended breastfeeding, many people still view it as socially unacceptable. Breastfeeding beyond infancy is about comfort and emotional connection, and it is important to shift cultural norms so that the acceptable duration of breastfeeding becomes whatever suits each mother and child. The World Health Organization recommends a combination of breastfeeding and complementary foods for up to two years and beyond, but globally, North America has one of the lowest rates of exclusive breastfeeding for the first five months of life.