Breastfeeding is a natural and intimate way for mothers to connect with their infants. While many choose to breastfeed for the first few years post-birth, some celebrity moms have taken it further with extended breastfeeding. These stories from well-known moms will inspire you and offer insight into their journeys.
1. Mayim Bialik
Actress and author Mayim Bialik breastfed her son Fred for an impressive 4 years and 3 months. She highlighted the strong bond and nutritional benefits of extended breastfeeding while also acknowledging the challenges, such as pain and dealing with thrush.
2. Thandiwe Newton
Actress Thandiwe Newton, a mother of three, still breastfeeds her 2-year-old, finding it to be a source of pure happiness and emphasizing that her body was designed for this purpose.
3. Nelly Furtado
In 2003, singer Nelly Furtado breastfed her first daughter for two years. She shared that she felt more energetic after weaning and encouraged other mothers to embrace the breastfeeding experience.
4. Nikki Reed
Actress Nikki Reed and her husband Ian Somerhalder welcomed their daughter in 2017. Reed reflected on the uncertainty of their breastfeeding journey when their baby was 20 months old, stressing the importance of following her daughter’s cues and meeting her needs.
5. Selma Blair
Actress Selma Blair welcomed her son at 40 and proudly shared a breastfeeding moment when he turned two. She advocates for breastfeeding in public, putting her baby’s needs first over any societal opinions.
6. Danica McKellar
Actress and education advocate Danica McKellar breastfed her only child until he was 2 and a half. McKellar believes that the length of breastfeeding is a personal decision for each mother and child, urging moms to do what works best for them.
7. Bekah Martinez
Former ‘Bachelor’ contestant Bekah Martinez is a strong advocate for tandem nursing. She breastfed her daughter for 26 months, normalizing the idea that nursing a 4-year-old is natural and not shameful. Martinez emphasizes that extended breastfeeding has a long historical precedent globally.
8. Coco Austin
TV personality Coco Austin continues to breastfeed her 5-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Chanel, at the age of 43. Austin treasures the bonding experience with her daughter who seeks comfort in breastfeeding despite enjoying solid foods.
Extended breastfeeding is a personal choice that each mother must make based on her and her child’s needs. It fosters a unique bond and nurturing love that benefits both parties. These stories from celebrity moms exemplify that extended breastfeeding can be a beautiful and rewarding experience. Share your thoughts on extended breastfeeding in the comments below!
