Corinne wrote:
"However, for myself and I'm
 sure many others, breastfeeding is *not* a sexual experience but is
 definitely a *sensual* experience.  I do believe that many women don't
 breastfeed because they fear it will negate their sexuality in their
 relationship with their partner.  I can see only good coming from more men
 and women learning to accept the innate sensuality of breastfeeding."

The thing is, I don't think our culture even relishes the sensuality between sexual partners. We have very clearly defined anything to do with the breasts and genitals of humans as sex. Sensuality has no place in our culture. So, any intimate relationship which does not culminate in a sexual relationship makes people uneasy--there is always the expectation that the sex is sure to follow. After all, what would be the point, otherwise? So, a woman simply feeling or appearing sensual is threatening, the innate sensuality of children is threatening, the sensuality of birth and breastfeeding are taboo to even discuss and sensual experiences between non-sex partners is also threatening.
Jennifer Tow, IBCLC, CT, USA

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