Why Breastfeeding Grief and Trauma Matter
Amy Brown
2019
This deeply compassionate book explores the emotional impact of breastfeeding experiences that don’t go to plan. Dr. Amy Brown gives voice to the grief, guilt, anger, and confusion many parents feel when faced with unexpected challenges, early weaning, or lack of support. Through evidence and empathy, she validates those emotions and outlines a path toward healing.
Why It’s Included:
Too often, the emotional toll of breastfeeding difficulties is dismissed or silenced. This book offers the acknowledgment and language many parents need to process their experiences. It aligns strongly with our philosophy of holistic, relationship-centred care — and the belief that emotional wellbeing is essential in infant feeding support.
Who It’s For:
Ideal for anyone who has experienced unexpected or painful breastfeeding outcomes. Also valuable for lactation professionals, midwives, and peer supporters working with grieving parents or complex feeding stories.
“Women do not fail to breastfeed, society fails to adequately support them to do so. Here Amy Brown explores the emotional impact when breastfeeding goals are unmet due to challenges beyond the individual’s capacity to overcome. Essential reading for those educating and supporting expectant and new parents and for mothers processing the grief”
Further Reading:
Healing Breastfeeding Grief – Hilary Jacobson
Breastfeeding Doesn’t Need to Suck – Kathleen Kendall-Tackett
