Abstract

ALANIS-RUFINO, Celia Mercedes. History of breastfeeding in Mexico. Review from the 16th to the early 20th century. Rev. mex. pediatr. [online]. 2021, vol.88, n.6, pp.249-253.  Epub Aug 15, 2022. ISSN 0035-0052.  https://doi.org/10.35366/105428.

Based on a bibliographic review, the objective of this article is to provide an overview that accounts for certain characteristics that have defined breastfeeding, at various times in the history of Mexico. A journey through the pre-Hispanic period and the viceregal period is made, as well as what happened in the 19th century and the first years of the 20th century. The description includes aspects of breastfeeding in each era, including the actors who have participated, such as wet nurses, who have played a substantial role at different times in history and, of course, the role of doctors. Likewise, it describes how prescriptions and medical advice were provided to mothers, in addition to the different opinions that were raised regarding breastfeeding and animal milk.

Keywords : Review; history; breastfeeding; doctors; wet-nurses.