Many mothers experience mixed emotions around breastfeeding—some struggle with guilt if they cannot or choose not to, while others feel pressured to make it look effortless. Criticism can also come from outsiders, with remarks about a child being “too old” to nurse or assumptions that a woman is less maternal if she doesn’t breastfeed.
However, a growing number of celebrities are pushing back against these outdated stigmas. By openly sharing and defending their own breastfeeding choices, they are showing that every journey is personal and valid. With their influence and visibility, these public figures are helping normalize breastfeeding and empowering women to feel confident in whatever path they choose for themselves and their babies.
1. Miranda Kerr
Just two months after welcoming her son Flynn with Orlando Bloom in 2011, Miranda Kerr was back on the Victoria’s Secret runway. When asked about her post-baby recovery, she credited it to a mix of good genetics—and plenty of breastfeeding.
Miranda explained that she wasn’t focused on “snapping back” quickly but rather on having a healthy pregnancy and baby. “I had a 10-pound baby!” she shared. “I truly enjoyed breastfeeding. It came naturally to me, and it really boosted my metabolism. I nursed for a year and a half and pumped while I was working.”
The supermodel has also proudly posted photos with her baby on social media, celebrating both motherhood and her decision to breastfeed.
2. Hilary Duff
Unlike some celebrity moms who found breastfeeding came naturally, Hilary Duff faced real challenges when trying to balance motherhood and her busy career. The actress openly shared her story to remind other mothers that every experience is different—and that choosing to stop breastfeeding is just as valid as continuing.
Hilary explained that her initial goal was to breastfeed her daughter for six months before deciding whether to continue. But the reality of pumping on set was far from easy. With no real downtime, she often found herself pumping in crowded trailers while stylists worked around her. As her feeding sessions became less frequent, her milk supply dropped, and she began to feel disconnected from the bonding moments she cherished with her baby.
“I felt so grateful to have that time with my daughter,” Hilary shared, adding that she appreciated being able to breastfeed when so many women cannot. “But I needed a break. I was exhausted, sad, and frustrated—and I felt like I was failing.”
She admitted the weaning process was emotionally difficult, leaving her missing the hormonal boost that breastfeeding naturally provides. Still, Hilary emphasized that stepping back was necessary for her mental health and overall well-being. By speaking up, she hoped to encourage other moms who may be struggling with guilt or pressure, reminding them that every choice is personal and valid.
3. Olivia Wilde
Olivia Wilde has been one of the most outspoken celebrity advocates for normalizing breastfeeding. Since welcoming her first child, Otis, in 2014, the actress and model has openly shared her experiences and views on the subject, using her platform to break stereotypes and inspire other moms.
In an interview shortly after Otis’s birth, Olivia posed for a now-famous photo with her baby and explained why it felt so meaningful. “Any portrait of me as a new mother wouldn’t feel complete without my baby,” she said, adding that breastfeeding had quickly become a natural part of her identity.
But beyond her personal journey, Olivia has also addressed the social pressures and judgments many women face around breastfeeding. “People should be allowed to feed their babies wherever and whenever they need to,” she said in another interview. “Mothers shouldn’t feel pressured to breastfeed if it’s not right for them, and they definitely shouldn’t be shamed if they do. Both extremes are unfair.”
When speaking about her second child, Daisy, Wilde reinforced her belief that breastfeeding should always be about choice, not obligation. “It’s not something that should ever be forced on anyone, and no mother should feel guilty either way,” she explained.
She has also acknowledged that, while beautiful, breastfeeding comes with its own set of challenges. “It’s not easy—it’s messy, and half the time you’re covered in milk,” she admitted. “But for me personally, it was a rewarding experience.”
Through her honesty, Olivia Wilde has highlighted both the joys and struggles of breastfeeding, encouraging moms everywhere to embrace what works best for them without judgment.
Alanis Morissette is a passionate supporter of breastfeeding, consistently speaking out about its benefits and sharing her own experiences as a mother. She has used interviews and social media to normalize breastfeeding, often posting photos of herself nursing her young children.
“For me, it’s about protecting their safety, well-being, and emotional attachment. That stage of development is incredibly important,” she explained in an interview. Alanis also supports extended breastfeeding, emphasizing that her children naturally decided when to stop, regardless of their age.
Beyond her personal journey, Alanis has worked with other advocates on the documentary The Milky Way, which highlights how formula companies often discourage breastfeeding to boost sales.
She reflected on society’s mixed attitudes toward motherhood and breastfeeding, saying, “We live in a society that objectifies women, but when a mother embraces the natural, powerful act of feeding her child, it can feel intimidating to some. Breastfeeding is a beautiful, instinctive, and empowering experience.”
Through her advocacy, Morissette encourages mothers to embrace breastfeeding on their own terms while raising awareness about societal pressures and the influence of formula marketing.
5. Alyssa Milano
Even before becoming a mother, Alyssa Milano championed the rights of both babies and mothers to breastfeed. After having children, she embraced breastfeeding as a deeply personal and empowering experience. “I loved having that closeness and one-on-one time with them,” she shared in an interview. “I enjoyed breastfeeding even more than I expected,” she added.
Alyssa has also spoken out against the common insecurities and societal pressures that nursing mothers face. “It’s unbelievable this is still an issue. Telling a mom to feed her baby in the bathroom is like telling someone to eat their lunch there. Would you eat your sandwich in the bathroom or under a blanket?” she questioned.
To support and encourage other mothers, Alyssa uses her social media platforms to share moments of herself breastfeeding, helping normalize and celebrate the experience.