Rumer Willis Shares Intimate Breastfeeding Photos With Baby Lou: ‘It’s a Gift'
Rumer Willis is baring her soul — and her breasts! — for a special reason. She just shared intimate breastfeeding photos with her daughter Louetta “Lou,” 16 months, to spread awareness about World Breastfeeding Week, and people are praising her vulnerability.
“I feel so grateful that our journey has been so incredible. Breastfeeding has been one of the most joyful and bonding experiences of my life with Lou, who is still nursing at 16 months,” the My Divorce Party star wrote on Instagram today. “I don’t know when we will stop but I am sure we will figure it out together.”
In the first picture, Willis is wearing a green bikini, pulled down to allow access to her milk. Lou looks at the camera, grabbing her mom’s chest as she eats. Other pictures from her nursing journey include a picture of a tiny Lou sleep-nursing, a photo of Lou holding a baby doll while nursing, and a picture of Willis’s mom Demi Moore cuddling her daughter while Willis feeds Lou. There’s also a video of Lou nursing that is so cozy and sweet.
Willis, who shares Lou with partner Derek Richard Thomas, shared how grateful she is for an easy experience nursing her baby. “This journey has been filled with ease and grace, and I feel incredibly privileged because I know this isn’t the case for everyone,” she continued. “What matters deeply to me is creating a space to support women on their breastfeeding journey, so all can experience the joy and connection it brings.”
The first week in August is World Breastfeeding Week, with a focus on “Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all.” In her post, Willis thanked her mom and other women who supported her while breastfeeding, while recognizing that other women lack support and care. “Breast milk is a miraculous living substance, rich in antibodies, essential nutrients, and enzymes that bolster a baby’s immune system and promote healthy development,” she continued. “Your milk changes every time you latch based on the conversation your baby’s saliva has with your milk. It’s more than just nourishment; it’s a gift of health and bonding that every mother should have the opportunity to give.”
“Let’s advocate for better support and resources for breastfeeding moms everywhere. Together, we can ensure every woman has the chance to experience this beautiful journey. ???????? #BreastfeedingJourney #SupportMoms #HealthyBabies #Motherhood” she added.
Many people loved Willis’s pictures and honesty about breastfeeding. “Thank you so much for this post ❤️ my son is 18 month old and still nursing too. Breastfeeding is such a wonderful thing ❤️” one mom wrote. Another said, “The most beautiful bond with a mother and her baby. ❤️ beautiful to see this.”
Someone else said, “It was hard at the beginning but it was joyful through the whole breastfeeding journey. And I breastfed until my girl was nearly 3 ????. This is a true gift a mother can give to their child. Enjoy your bonding moments ????????????”
Others were upset about Willis sharing these photos (because women apparently aren’t allowed to show their breasts if it’s not sexualized). “Its a beautiful time for you we understand but the world doesn’t need to see this should have left in private,” one person said.Another wrote, “Girl tmi!! I support it I get it but… somethings better left private.”
“If you’re offended by the post, keep scrolling and mind your business. Most humans find this to be natural and beautiful ????” someone else said, calling out the haters.
In an interview with E! News in December, the Sorority Row actress called out people who have a problem with breastfeeding. “I don’t have shame about my breasts or about feeding my daughter,” she said. “That’s how they eat; that’s how they find connection; that’s how they find safety.”
“We, as a society, are the ones who have sexualized breasts,” she continued. “Breasts are literally made to feed our children.” She added, “If people look at me weird or judge me, that’s fine. Whatever your journey is, don’t be ashamed. It’s such a privilege to be able to feed your child and have those moments of connection. Are you going to prioritize what other people think of you over your connection with your child?” Exactly!
Willis is proud to breastfeed her daughter, and it’s empowering to see.
Feeding little ones isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey, and these celebrity moms are advocating for extended breastfeeding.