On Thursday, Unicode, the authority behind emoji standards, announced the addition of 56 new emojis for 2017, including a long-awaited breastfeeding emoji. This initiative aims to foster acceptance of breastfeeding in society, a significant step considering the current U.S. breastfeeding rates, which stand at only 49.4% at six months and 40.7% exclusively at three months. The existing baby bottle emoji, approved in 2010, has been the sole representation of infant feeding in the emoji lexicon, highlighting a gap that needed addressing.
The Push for the Breastfeeding Emoji
Registered nurse Anna Chen from London’s University College Hospital championed the breastfeeding emoji’s introduction, noting that it reflects the widespread cultural practice of breastfeeding throughout history. The emoji has garnered significant demand, ranking among the top 30 requests and prompting petitions for its inclusion. It is expected to be used in relatable contexts, such as sharing late-night nursing experiences or updating friends on baby care by simply sending a breastfeeding emoji.
Symbol of Support for Parents
Anna expresses optimism that this emoji could serve as a badge of honor for parents on social media, facilitating quick communication while signaling societal support for their efforts. However, concerns have been raised regarding the initial design, which primarily represents a white figure, potentially excluding a vast majority of the global population. Unicode has indicated plans to release the emoji in various skin tones, which could help in normalizing breastfeeding across diverse communities, including minority populations.
Impact on Breastfeeding Conversations
While the emoji alone won’t resolve the challenges faced by breastfeeding mothers, it could initiate important conversations and support efforts to create a more accepting environment for nursing in public. The anticipated rollout of the breastfeeding emoji is set for summer 2017, with the hope that it will inspire a broader dialogue about breastfeeding and its place in modern society.
Additional Resources
For further information on home insemination techniques, you can visit our post on artificial insemination kits. Additionally, for related insights, Intracervical Insemination provides valuable information on this topic, and WomensHealth.gov is an excellent resource for those exploring pregnancy and home insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, the introduction of the breastfeeding emoji by Unicode is a pivotal step towards normalizing breastfeeding in society. While it may not single-handedly change perceptions, it fosters dialogue and could lead to greater acceptance and support for nursing mothers.