Breastfeeding as a Fundamental Islamic Human Right

The argument inherent in this paper is that the religious beliefs and values system deeply shape Muslims’ breastfeeding culture and that mapping the religious ideals of Islam is essential given the potential inroads it offers toward enhanced neonatal, prenatal and pediatric practices, as well as the mitigation of malpractice or cultural inhibitors. This paper discusses the Muslim religious, moral and spiritual understanding of breastfeeding as a basic natural right while exploring the peculiar perspectives of Islamic law and ethics on the matter, in an effort to present a relevant coherent overview. This research shows that for Muslims, breastfeeding is intertwined with Islam’s system of beliefs and values and hence continues to play a vital role in improving health education and increasing rates of exclusive breastfeeding. Further empirical studies on Muslims’ perception and practices of breastfeeding shall highlight the extent to which Muslims adhere to religious and spiritual teachings, the response to cultural, secular and liberal models of child upbringing, and how a Muslim religious discourse may further support and celebrate human lactation and breastfeeding as a basic right.