Many moms still report feeling embarrassed for choosing to breastfeed their child, and some have even been publicly shamed by strangers simply for feeding their babies.
One mom has made it her mission to end the stigma against breastfeeding through social media and her blog.
Jennifer Mancuso's photos of her breastfeeding her daughters have been the target of some online trolls, but she had the perfect response to those who said she posts them "to get attention."
She is a step-mom to daughters Copeland, Vegah, and Adriana, and also has four daughters named Parker, Piper, Aria, and Asher.
That's one busy mama!
These posts are incredibly encouraging for other moms who might also find themselves having a hard time seeing their bodies in a positive light.
She often posts these photos on Instagram and blogs about them. Jennifer hopes that by doing so, she can remove the stigma from breastfeeding once and for all.
After sustaining a breastfeeding injury (yes, they happen) on her right breast, Jennifer posted this funny update when she was finally healed.
Jennifer's story of being asked to breastfeed in an employee break room at her daughter's daycare led to viral fame.
According to Jennifer, the room was, "no bigger than a closet," and she felt she was being shamed for feeding her daughters at a daycare of all places.
She got a ton of support from other breastfeeding moms and ultimately, the daycare apologized to her and she was able to continue breastfeeding her daughters anywhere in the school.
She had the perfect response to these trolls who think she's posting these photos to show off her body.
"A breast feeding her child is no longer considered a “private” part. There is never a sex act taking place," she wrote in an Instagram post.
"Yes, I am sharing my images for attention. There I said it. No, seriously, I am! I do it for attention!" she said.
" I want the attention of other mamas so they can read my stories and see my portraits and hopefully find courage, comfort, inspiration, and empowerment in their own lives," she said.
By generating discussion, Jennifer's photos and stories are helping to normalize breastfeeding.
Many women are still shamed in public for simply feeding their child. With moms like Jennifer speaking out, we can put an end to breastfeeding shame.
It's true. We'll all watch Game of Thrones without batting an eye, but when a mom goes to feed her baby, people will jump at the chance to shame her.
I'm going to tell you from experience, a baby's feeding schedule can be very unpredictable and it's actually really difficult to nurse with a blanket or cover.
That's why breastfeeding in public is often a necessity and why we need to support nursing moms.
Thank you, Jennifer, for all the attention you've brought to this important issue. Moms like you and the power of social media will end the stigma against breastfeeding once and for all.
