Giselle Bundchen’s Breastfeeding Controversy

Giselle Bundchen recently got some moms up in arms (perhaps breasts would be more appropriate) over comments to Harper’s Bazaar UK where she called for a law to require breastfeeding for the first 6 months.

“I think breastfeeding really helped (me keep me figure). Some people here (in the US) think they don’t have to breastfeed, and I think ‘Are you going to give chemical food to your child when they are so little?’ I think there should be a worldwide law, in my opinion, that mothers should breastfeed their babies for six months.” {UKPA}

After criticism for insensitivity to other mothers, the supermodel took to her blog to post a “special message” saying that the comment was less about the law, and more about her “passion and beliefs about children.” She went on to add “Becoming a new mom has brought a lot of questions, I feel like I am in a constant search for answers on what might be the best for my child. It’s unfortunate that in an interview sometimes things can seem so black and white. I am sure if I would just be sitting talking about my experiences with other mothers, we would just be sharing opinions. I understand that everyone has their own experience and opinions and I am not here to judge.”

Breastfeeding is always a contentious issue with fiercely held opinions on both sides: breast feeding advocates often argue that breast milk is better for children while moms who go with formula resent the notion that they’re somehow harming their children. Whichever view you may take, the supermodel acknowledges that while she’s definitely in the breast milk is best camp, she doesn’t think it means other moms aren’t trying to do their best for their children.

“I believe that bringing a life into this world is the single most important thing a person can undertake and it can also be the most challenging. I think as mothers we are all just trying our best.” {Gisele’s Blog}