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Breastfeeding in the Middle Ages

Breastfeeding in the Middle Ages

Historian Hannah Skoda explores what it was like to breastfeed a baby in medieval Europe

Emily Briffett

Published: June 3, 2024 at 7:55 AM

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Breastfeeding has been part of raising children since the dawn of time. However, studying its history also highlights stories of grief, community support and enforced labour. Speaking to Emily Briffett, historian Hannah Skoda shares her research on breastfeeding during the Middle Ages, from what medieval medics believed breast milk was made from, to ethical issues surrounding wet-nursing – and how medieval people felt about big debates that still surround breastfeeding today.

Authors

Emily BriffettSenior content producer (podcasts)

Emily Briffett is senior content producer (podcasts) at HistoryExtra