Breastfeeding Without Birthing
Alyssa Schnell
2013
This groundbreaking guide supports non-gestational parents — including adoptive, intended, and LGBTQ+ parents — in inducing lactation or relactating to breastfeed or chestfeed. Alyssa Schnell, an IBCLC and adoptive mother herself, combines clinical guidance with emotional support and affirming language to walk families through the process with compassion and clarity.
Why It’s Included:
This book expands the conversation around infant feeding in a powerful way. It challenges assumptions about who can breastfeed and why, and reflects our values of inclusivity, informed choice, and respect for diverse family experiences. It also highlights the relational and nurturing aspects of breastfeeding beyond biology.
Who It’s For:
Essential reading for non-birthing parents interested in lactation, as well as professionals working in adoption, surrogacy, and LGBTQ+ family support. Also valuable for any lactation consultant or peer counsellor looking to broaden their knowledge and offer affirming, trauma-aware care.
“More than ever before, families today come in many forms beyond the 2oth Century model of the nuclear family. From families who adopt or use Assistive Reproduction technology or surogacy to achieve their dreams of parenthood, to people living in same-sex relationships or identify as non-binary, Mum, Dad and two kids isn’t the only way anymore. For those who wish to breastfeed/chestfeed babies gestated in another body, this book looks at the practicalities of induced lactation. An important resource for anyone supporting families as well as families themselves.”
Further Reading:
– Mixed Up – Lucy Ruddle
– Relactation: A Guide to Rebuilding Your Milk Supply – Lucy Ruddle
