Scientific proof and millions of years of history support the fact that breast milk is the healthiest, most efficient source of nourishment for infants. Breastfeeding has also been proven to substantially reduce health risks for the mother, and produce inestimable long-term emotional and physical benefits for mother and child alike. So why does the United States have the lowest breastfeeding rate in the industrialised world and the highest infant mortality rate? This study examines the issue of breastfeeding from a cultural standpoint, clearly drawing the line between fact and fiction. Among the issues addressed are: the truth about the "correlation" between breastfeeding and the loss of a woman's independence; formula companies' marketing and advertising campaigns for lab formulas and their influence on societal discomfort with breastfeeding; the unholy, highly profitable alliance between medical professionals and the media in promoting bottle feeding over breastfeeding; breastfeeding attitudes and practices in countries throughout the world; and how breastfeeding affects both the maternal and paternal relationship. The book provides parents and medical professionals with the information they need to properly advise or decide about this critical life choice. In the process, it should inspire the reader to view breastfeeding as a most unique, life-affirming experience.