Crossnursing

Crossnursing is a term that describes the practice of a person breastfeeding or chestfeeding an infant who is not their biological child. This can occur in various contexts, including within families, among friends, or as part of informal or formal milk-sharing arrangements. The motivations for crossnursing can be diverse, ranging from the inability of a mother to produce sufficient milk for her own infant to a desire to provide breast milk to an orphaned or premature baby, or simply a mutual agreement between mothers to support each other.

Historically, crossnursing, often referred to as wet nursing, was a common practice when mothers were unable to breastfeed due to illness, death, or other circumstances. In contemporary society, concerns about milk sharing often revolve around the transmission of infectious diseases and the safe handling and storage of donated milk. Guidelines and protocols exist in many regions to address these safety concerns, often involving screening of milk donors and proper pasteurization methods. While sometimes controversial, crossnursing or milk sharing can be a valuable option for ensuring infants receive human milk when direct breastfeeding is not possible. It is important for individuals considering crossnursing or milk sharing to be well-informed about the potential risks and benefits, and to consult with healthcare professionals.