Overview

• During her June 10 appearance on Channel 5’s Vanessa Feltz show, Karen Millen described breastfeeding beyond six months as selfish and of no benefit to the child.
• She apologised on June 12, saying she did not intend to upset viewers and reaffirmed respect for mothers’ personal choices.
• Many dismissed her apology as inadequate and inaccurate, while others defended her right to voice a personal opinion on feeding practices.
• The NHS advises exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and the World Health Organization recommends continued breastfeeding alongside solid foods for up to two years or beyond.
• Millen said she breastfed her three children for six to seven months despite experiencing mastitis and discomfort, underscoring that her comments targeted toddler nursing.