Why celebs are the breast role models
Anna
WHEN Little Mix star LeighAnne Pinnock’s baby needed to be fed, the new mum whipped down her redcarpet frock and got to work.
It might have been the premiere of her first film, Boxing Day, but her baby’s needs came first.
The picture – posted on Leigh-Anne’s Instagram – has been praised by fans and breastfeeding campaigners alike.
She’s one of a number of famous mums who are not just choosing to breastfeed their babies but proudly posting pictures on their social media channels.
Musician Halsey, models Emily Ratajkowski and Giselle Bundchen, TV presenter Myleeene Klass and rap star Cardi B are just some of the celebrity mamas who think breast is best.
Chrissy Teigan – who, like Leigh-Anne, has twins – even shares pictures of both infants latched on at the same time.
Others keep it real with shots of them pumping breast milk in unexpected locations – model Ashley Graham in an Uber and Pink in a hotel bathroom before going on stage.
According to breastfeeding experts, these images are an important part of bringing breastfeeding mainstream.
Arielle Belle, of Breastfeed Scotland, described Leigh-Anne’s photo as “simply stunning”
She said: “Seeing photos of any parent feeding their baby, the way they choose to is empowering.
“With social media, we share our highs and lows. If a parent wants to show their friends, family and followers a picture of them breastfeeding then share away.”
Almost two-thirds of babies born in Scotland are breastfed at some point but not all of these mothers manage the recommended six months.
Belle thinks celebs can encourage more women to consider breastfeeding – or keep going when they are struggling.
She said: “It makes a difference to see celebrities like LeighAnne breastfeed. She’s a working mum who is prioritising her baby’s biological needs and sharing them. People enjoy following celebrities and seeing what they do in everyday life.
This is everyday life for her. This photo represents her taking a pause, listening to her maternal instincts, connecting with one of her twins and responding to her baby’s needs.”
Social media has become an important source of help and information for new mothers, especially when they are stuck on the sofa late at night feeding a baby.”
Scotland historically had poor figures but that is changing.
Belle added: “Breastfeeding is important to parents of all little tiny humans. They are fighting to be seen, listened to and supported. Some are now voicing this through social media and that is a great outlet.”
Famous mums are happy to share intimate images of themselves breastfeeding their babies, as Burnside discovers