Why Kelly Osbourne Won't Breastfeed Her Baby Despite the Mom-Shamers

These days there seem to be a multitude of campaigns and social media initiatives asking people not to judge a mother’s decision on how she feeds her baby. But amid cries of “fed is best,” there are still people who insist on shaming mothers who decide not to breastfeed. The latest target of these mom-shamers? Kelly Osbourne.

In a recent episode of Red Table Talk featuring Hayden Panettiere, Kelly Osbourne opened up about her pregnancy and what a wild and crazy ride it has been. One of the biggest things she’s struggled with—the reaction to her decision not to breastfeed.

“There is so much judgment in motherhood. I have chosen to stay on my medication instead of breastfeeding and the judgment that I have received from my friends and also extended family [is wild],” Osbourne said.

The guest co-host went on to talk about the backlash over the fact that she would “miss out on that bonding period” by not breastfeeding. “‘I’m like, ‘Don’t you think I know that?’“ Osbourne said in response. “But, what kind of mother am I gonna be if I start going backward, if I start being self-destructive?”

Osbourne, who has been open about her addiction and mental health struggles, was quick to sympathize with Panettiere, a mother herself who had been judged and dragged down by the media and friends over her postpartum depression and addictions. The pain of being portrayed as an “imperfect mother” weighed hard on her shoulders and in the minds of mothers everywhere.

So what is Osbourne’s solution to fighting back against shaming? Focusing on what’s best for her and baby. “Something for me that I am learning is that I can’t pay attention to the milieu,” Osbourne said. “It has to be what is best for me, what is best for my baby, because if I don’t do that what kind of mother am I going to be?”

The confident mom-to-be took to Instagram in May to announce that she was expecting her first child with boyfriend and Slipknot DJ Sid Wilson. The former Fashion Police host donned a pair of statement glasses while holding a sonogram photo to share the good news. “I am over the moon to announce that I am going to be a Mumma,” Osbourne said. “To say I am happy does not quite cut it. I am ecstatic!”

Osbourne’s post was flooded with well-wishes from Hollywood stars like RuPaul’s Drag Race producer Ross Matthews, who said, “You’re gonna be the best mom! So happy for you! Can’t wait to meet your baby.” Modern Family actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Snooki of Jersey Shore fame also congratulated Osbourne on her news, with Snooki saying, “Omg, Congrats Mawma!”

But perhaps the most anticipated congratulations came from Osbourne’s mom, Sharon Osbourne. Moments after the 37-year-old’s post, her mother Sharon took to Instagram to share her pride, posting, “My heart could not be more full! I am so excited to share the beautiful journey ahead with you.”

We salute Osbourne as she navigates her pregnancy journey with courage and strength. If you are at the receiving end of mom shaming, know that it’s a pretty universal experience. Read more stories about moms who have gotten through the judgment and found their confidence on our Mom-Shaming page.