Model Elsie Hewitt recently shared her personal journey on why she chose not to breastfeed her daughter, Scottie Rose. The decision sparked conversations and judgments, which many mothers face when it comes to feeding choices.
Elsie, who is in a relationship with comedian Pete Davidson, welcomed their daughter on December 12, 2025. In a candid essay for Elle, Hewitt opened up about the challenges she faced during her pregnancy, which was unplanned and tough. She had been diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis, a painful condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. This diagnosis came after years of struggling with chronic pain and being dismissed by doctors.
According to recent statistics, about 1 in 10 women suffer from endometriosis, often leading to complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Hewitt detailed how the pregnancy—coming right after she had surgery to alleviate her symptoms—was a rollercoaster ride filled with discomfort, illness, and fatigue.
In her essay, she voiced her feelings about the pressure on new mothers to breastfeed. She mentioned that while breastfeeding is often seen as “the gold standard,” formula feeding should not be viewed as inferior. The guilt attached to not breastfeeding is a common sentiment many moms feel. “It’s a tough balance,” she wrote. “I had to focus on my recovery and mental well-being.”
Experiencing mastitis shortly after giving birth complicated the issue further for her. Despite her desire to breastfeed, her body had other plans. She found herself unable to produce milk, causing her feelings of grief and guilt over her decision to not breastfeed. “I was already feeling guilty,” she expressed. “But my body was producing milk. I was grieving an experience that I chose not to have.”
Nevertheless, Elsie felt fortunate that no one pressured her into a certain feeding method. “The most important thing to me was doing what is best for my baby,” she emphasized. Research shows that moms who prioritize their mental health can raise healthier children. A nourished baby can coexist with a mentally healthy mother.
Hewitt’s story is a powerful reminder of how important it is to respect all feeding choices. She concluded that every mother should feel empowered to make decisions that best suit her situation without shame or guilt. In a world where feeding choices are often scrutinized, her message stands out: “You do not have to sacrifice your well-being to prove your love.”
Being a mother is challenging enough without adding the weight of judgment. Every parent deserves support and understanding in their choices.
For more on endometriosis and its implications, visit the Mayo Clinic’s section on endometriosis.
More insights on motherhood and mental health can be found at CDC’s report on maternal mental health.
Source link
The Looker,Looker,Motherhood,Pete Davidson,Elsie Hewitt,parenting,Saturday Night Live,celebrities,body
