Parenting
Ferne McCann Talks About Breastfeeding In Public Without Hesitation
In the UK, the rates of breastfeeding are surprisingly low. Even though 81% of new mothers aspire to breastfeed, only 1% continue exclusively breastfeeding their infants at six months. So, what makes it so demanding in this context? A significant factor is the stress and censure that mothers encounter. One out of five have faced criticism for breastfeeding in public venues such as restaurants or theaters, and even celebrity Ferne McCann has encountered public scrutiny.
As the World Breastfeeding Week approaches with the theme of “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,” we had a conversation with Ferne, who is Pipetta’s breastfeeding advocate, business innovator, and a mother of two.
Ferne shared her authentic breastfeeding journey and explained how she is assisting other mothers in feeling encouraged and motivated. She delved into the importance of normalizing breastfeeding, the repercussions of public embarrassment, and why persisting with breastfeeding is immensely gratifying.
Would you mind sharing a glimpse of your individual breastfeeding voyage?
“I take immense pride in my breastfeeding saga, even though it hasn’t been a walk in the park and I’ve encountered numerous challenges. I view the initial phases of breastfeeding akin to a hurdles race. There are various hurdles like sore nipples, latch problems, and the emotional and physical transformations that come with being a new parent.”
Every baby has a unique feeding style, which can be perplexing. My journey with Finty (my second child) differed significantly from Sunday (my first child), leading me to question what was considered normal. Nevertheless, I want other mothers to understand that these are all part of the process!”
There were moments when I contemplated giving up, be it due to the daunting idea of breastfeeding in public, feeling isolated since my partner couldn’t participate, or grappling with sleep deprivation. Nevertheless, I’m pleased that I persisted. Presently, breastfeeding feels incredibly gratifying, and I aspire to motivate others to realize that it becomes easier and is worth every struggle.”
Earlier in the year, you were involved in the #BreastfeedingBeauties movement. What inspired you to endorse this initiative?
“Initially, breastfeeding in public was quite daunting for me, especially in the beginning. I vividly recall breastfeeding Finty publicly for the first time and feeling overwhelmed. However, as I grew more at ease, so did those around me.
Now, I effortlessly breastfeed in public without a second thought, and I can even do it on the go. I believe that mothers require encouragement and backing, which is why I felt inclined towards the #BreastfeedingBeauties initiative. It revolves around normalizing public breastfeeding and boosting maternal confidence. Using the Pippeta pump provided me with flexibility and aligned with my values of supporting and empowering mothers.”
How has your personal breastfeeding experience transformed over time?
“From the outset, I aimed to breastfeed Sunday, which I successfully did until she turned six months old. It was a positive encounter, but as a young, new mother, I felt rather self-conscious and awkward, even in the presence of close family and friends.”
Fast forward six years to my breastfeeding journey with Finty, and it has been an entirely different experience. Presently, I’m a year into it and still going strong. Initially, I set a goal of six months, mirroring my experience with Sunday, but I find it so rewarding that I have no intentions of stopping anytime soon. The growth in my confidence and expertise over time is truly remarkable.”
Which aids or devices have proven most beneficial for you?
“I didn’t utilize a pump with Sunday since I exclusively breastfed her, which suited me well as a single mother at that time. However, having a breast pump with Finty has been a game-changer. It enables me to involve others like my partner, friends, and family in the feeding routine. The Pippeta breast pump has been instrumental in this.”
Using the pump has assisted me in establishing a consistent routine with Finty. I schedule pumping reminders on my phone, allowing me to keep up with it even when I’m occupied or away from home. Recently, I replaced the midday feed as Finty is now consuming three meals daily. Instead of discarding that milk, I express and store it. Having additional bags of expressed milk in the freezer alleviates the pressure, particularly when I need to be away and entrust the baby to someone else.”
How do social media and platforms like Instagram contribute to bolstering breastfeeding mothers?
“I find social media and online forums extremely beneficial for immediate support from fellow mothers in similar circumstances. They offer secure, non-judgmental spaces to connect, exchange insights, and provide emotional reinforcement.”
Platforms such as Instagramare excellent for accessing evidence-backed guidance from lactation experts and advocacy organizations. They assist in normalizing nursing and providing priceless insights. Additionally, they create a platform for sharing positive narratives, reducing taboos, and empowering more mothers to breastfeed with confidence.
Before commencing breastfeeding, these channels also allow you to conduct your research, ranging from discussion boards to parenting websites like Mother&Baby, ensuring you are well-informed.”
How crucial is it for brands such as Pippeta to endorse breastfeeding mothers, and what sets their contribution apart?
“When I initiated breastfeeding Finty, I encountered difficulties with her latch—it felt incorrect and kept coming off. That’s why I find it remarkable that brands like Pippeta provide complimentary lactation support from certified professionals with each pump. Watching latch demonstrations repeatedly on my own proved futile, so having real expert guidance and access to the online breastfeeding community was invaluable.
I desire for mothers to understand that we all traverse different paths, and sharing our encounters can significantly aid in supporting one another. One essential piece of counsel I received from a lactation specialist is that breastfeeding is a skill your infant must grasp.
If you are feeling disheartened or contemplating giving up, bear in mind that your baby is merely learning. It is a collaborative endeavor, and with time and perseverance, they will grasp it. Do not surrender—support and determination make all the difference.”
What tips would you offer to new mothers experiencing apprehension about breastfeeding?
“Initially, breastfeeding may seem daunting and far from intuitive, but it becomes easier over time. It is a novel journey for both you and your infant, and though it necessitates dedication and surmounting obstacles, the benefits are worthwhile.
Breastfeeding genuinely entails a joint effort between you and your baby. Finty makes it appear effortless, yet it is crucial to acknowledge that anything valuable demands effort. Despite the challenges, breastfeeding offers remarkable convenience—it is always readily available and eliminates the necessity for preparation.
One vital pointer I have acquired is to stay hydrated. It may sound simplistic, yet it is easy to neglect your own needs while tending to a newborn. Additionally, a handy trick is to utilize a hair tie on your wrist to remember which side you have nursed from.
My recommendation to new mothers is to exercise patience and allocate yourself time. It might be challenging initially, but with persistence, it evolves into a fulfilling experience.”
How do you maintain your mental well-being while balancing motherhood and your profession?
“I utilize the @shoorah app daily for mental health, focusing on meditation and positive assertions. Each day, I dedicate approximately seven to 12 minutes to either meditation or listening to encouraging messages on diversified mental well-being topics. This regimen, which I adhere to each evening, encompasses sitting on my meditation cushion, contemplating gratitude, and recently, integrating prayer and the act of surrender.
I also prioritize physical activity and nutritious eating, as I believe these are vital for fortifying both the mind and body.”
How do you handle the mental burden of being a professional mother with two young children?
“Balancing the mental strain of being a mother of two young children alongside work obligations is simultaneously demanding and fulfilling. Each role necessitates resilience, patience, and self-nurture to cope with the ceaseless demands. Acknowledging that I am setting a positive precedent for my daughters renders every challenge worthwhile.
I still encounter occasional ‘mum guilt’, yet I am dedicated to both my occupation and my family. I take pride in my profession, which is purposeful and gratifying, nearly as much as in being a caregiver. It often feels like an emotional tug-of-war! Nonetheless, having a robust support system—whether from a spouse, family, friends, or colleagues—and upholding a structured daily schedule aids in managing the mental workload.”
Lastly, at Mother&Baby, we recognize World Breastfeeding Week as an occasion to honor all mothers. It is imperative to comprehend that the aim is not to pit breastfeeding against alternative feeding methods. Whether you opt for breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or a blend of both, we acknowledge that each path presents its unique challenges. For some, breastfeeding may be uncomfortable or unfeasible, and the compulsion to persist despite these adversities can induce guilt and tension.
Irrespective of how you elect to nourish your infant, your journey is valid and merits acknowledgment. By bolstering one another, exchanging our narratives, and respecting all nourishing choices, we can foster a community where every mother feels empowered and esteemed. Remember, every endeavor warrants celebration and applause.”