Wet nursing

Wet nursing is the practice of a woman breastfeeding and caring for another's child. Wet nurses are employed if the mother dies, or if she is unable or chooses not to nurse the child herself. Wet-nursed children may be known as "milk-siblings", and in some cultures the families are linked by a special relationship of milk kinship.

History

Wet nursing has existed as a profession for centuries and was a well-paid, respectable and popular job for many women. In many cultures, it was simply the done thing: if a mother was unable to nurse her child herself, a wet nurse was employed. The practice was common in the past in many societies, including Europe and North America.

Modern times

In modern times, the practice is less common but still exists for mothers who cannot or choose not to nurse their children. In some societies, wet nurses are still employed and continue to play a role in child rearing, especially in countries where the mortality rate is high and the need for wet nurses is great.

Health implications

There are both positive and negative health implications for the child. On the positive side, breastfeeding can provide a range of health benefits. On the negative side, there is the risk of transmission of certain infectious diseases, such as HIV, through breast milk.

Cultural implications

In some cultures, the wet nurse is simply seen as fulfilling a job. In others, however, she may be seen as a surrogate mother and may have a profound role in the child's upbringing.

See also

• Breastfeeding
• Infant formula
• Surrogate mother

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