Breast Intentions: How Women Sabotage Breastfeeding for Themselves and Others
Allison Dixley
2014
This intentionally provocative title challenges cultural norms and individual behaviours that, according to the author, undermine breastfeeding. Dixley argues that both systemic forces and personal choices—often influenced by convenience culture or fear of discomfort—contribute to breastfeeding failure, despite widespread knowledge of its benefits.
Why It’s Included
While controversial, this book adds an unapologetic voice to the discussion around breastfeeding politics. It pushes readers to reflect critically on internalised beliefs and the broader culture that frames breastfeeding as optional or burdensome. It's included to encourage robust discussion and sharpen advocacy focus—even where we might disagree with tone or framing.
Who It’s For
Ideal for breastfeeding counsellors, lactation professionals, and those engaged in advocacy or policy. Also suited for readers who want to examine cultural attitudes toward breastfeeding with a critical lens, and who are open to challenging perspectives—even if they don’t fully align with them.
“None of us come to choices around infant feeding without bias. Societal and personal expectations, exposure to advertising and marketing and the portrayal of feeding in media all influence our decisions. This book goes deeply into how these and other perspectives can impact breastfeeding outcomes.Thought provoking.”
