Lauren McLeod, a 29-year-old Australian mom and doula, has sparked controversy for her decision to continue breastfeeding her children, Bowie, aged 5, and Tigerlily, aged 3. Despite facing a wave of criticism, Lauren stands firm in her choice, believing it to be the best for her family.
A Personal Decision Rooted in Convenience
Lauren, who has been a dedicated doula offering personalized support to women during childbirth and miscarriages, welcomed her first child, Bowie, in 2017 and her second, Tigerlily, in 2020. From the beginning, Lauren chose to breastfeed. “I never considered bottle-feeding. Not because I have anything against it, but breastfeeding just worked for us and was simply convenient,” she explained.
Breastfeeding Beyond the Norm
Currently, Lauren still breastfeeds her 5-year-old Bowie several times a week, particularly at bedtime. With the arrival of her second child, she started setting boundaries and reduced Bowie’s feeding frequency. Lauren emphasizes that her approach is neither odd nor unnatural. “It’s perfectly normal, and I’ll continue until they choose to stop. It’s a beautiful way for us to bond and reconnect after a long day. I’m grateful to nourish their growing bodies and brains with my milk and provide them with comfort and security during breastfeeding.”
Responding to Criticism
Sharing her breastfeeding journey has invited a barrage of criticism. Many people deem her children too old for breastfeeding, labeling the practice as “disgusting.” In response, Lauren argues that such comments stem from ignorance and cultural biases. “There’s no point in wasting my time and energy responding to someone who already has a negative opinion about me. Ultimately, if someone disagrees with my choices, that’s their view. The benefits far outweigh the challenges we might face.”
Lauren’s decision to go public with her story aims to normalize extended breastfeeding. “I want to help people understand that natural breastfeeding is biologically normal,” she asserts.
Normalizing Extended Breastfeeding
Lauren’s story sheds light on the broader conversation about extended breastfeeding. While it may not be conventional, it is a deeply personal decision that each family must make based on their unique needs and circumstances. In sharing her experience, Lauren hopes to challenge societal norms and encourage a more open-minded perspective on what it means to be a nurturing parent.
The Takeaway
Lauren McLeod’s journey is a testament to the diversity of parenting choices and the importance of respecting each family’s approach. Her resilience in the face of criticism underscores the strength of parental instincts and the unwavering commitment to her children’s well-being. By standing firm in her beliefs, Lauren is not only advocating for her family but also contributing to a broader understanding of parenting practices.
