Allah (swt) sends nourishment, pure and natural, with every baby born. How to get that milk to the baby is an art - the art of breastfeeding - which has been passed down from generation to generation.

“Mothers shall suckle their children for two whole years; (that is) for those who wish to complete the suckling. The duty of feeding and clothing nursing mothers in a seemly manner is upon the father of the child.” (Quran, 2:233).

Breastfeeding is recognized in Islam to be important and valued. Breastfeeding mothers have the right to be provided for, even if they are divorced from their husbands. 

The act of nursing a child is so powerful that it can even change relationships. If a woman nurses a child who is not her own, she becomes his “milk mother,” and she and her whole family become “mahram” for that child henceforth.

The popularity of breastfeeding has surged in the United States in recent years as doctors and researchers have recognized the multitude of benefits of mothers’ milk, due primarily to the efforts of La Leche League International, the world’s largest and most influential support for breastfeeding mothers.

Breast milk is proven to be the ideal food for infants’ brain development, and babies who are breastfed have higher IQs than formula-fed infants. Breastfed babies have fewer illnesses in both childhood and adulthood. They develop a close, beneficial and nurturing bond with their mother, since they inevitably spend hours in her embrace as they suckle. Breastfeeding also saves an incredible amount of money (around $40 a week) that would otherwise be spent on formula.

Even though everyone from pediatricians and scientists to soccer moms and celebrities are embracing breastfeeding, some women still struggle to nurse their infants. The most common problems are lack of familial support and lack of opportunity to learn the art of breastfeeding.

A mother who has just given birth, especially if it is her first child, is in a naturally vulnerable position. Coping with the fatigue, pain, and emotional and hormonal upheaval that often follow a pregnancy, a new mother often looks to people around her for support and decision-making. 

The baby’s grandmothers are in powerful positions at this time, as they provide the voice of experience. 

A generation ago, mothers were encouraged to formula-feed their infants. Synthetic powdered formula was touted as superior to the milk that Allah (swt) created for us. Even though the supremacy of breast milk has been well-established by now, old habits die hard. 

Therefore, one thing a new mother definitely needs is to have an educated and supportive mother and mother-in-law who will not push a baby bottle into her hand the very first time the infant has difficulty nursing.

Contrary to what many people believe, fathers play a huge role in breastfeeding. A new mother cannot possibly establish a healthy nursing relationship unless she gets enough rest, fluids and quiet time with her baby. Stress can reduce a mother’s milk supply, so during the first months when she and her baby are bonding and learning to nurse, a mother needs peace and tranquility.  A husband can support his wife by taking on some household chores, hiring a housecleaning service for temporary relief, spending time with the baby’s older siblings, and reassuring and comforting his wife when she gets tired or frustrated.

The role of a mother is so dignified and honored in Islam that men should make sure to shield the mothers of their children from any harsh words, criticism or unnecessary stress. A father who recognizes his wife’s noble efforts in nursing and nurturing his child and responds with gratitude and support will be giving his wife and his child and invaluable gift.

A woman can empower and support herself by reading as much breastfeeding literature as possible before the baby is born. There are countless books that explain breastfeeding techniques, address concerns and misconceptions, and enumerate the benefits of mothers’ milk.  

Volunteers for La Leche League International can give advice and help to breastfeeding mothers over the phone. Almost every city has a local chapter of LLL, and a supportive adviser is just a phone call away. Finally, professional lactation consultants are trained to help with even the most difficult breastfeeding problems, so no obstacle should be insurmountable for a family who is determined to breastfeed.