A positive effect of breastfeeding on the mother–infant relationship
is often assumed in the scientific literature, but this has not
been systematically reviewed. This review aims to clarify the role
of breastfeeding in the mother–infant relationship, which is conceptualized
as the maternal bond toward the infant and infant
attachment toward the mother. Our findings indicate that theoretical
mechanisms through which breastfeeding may enhance the
maternal bond or infant attachment (i.e., endocrine and sensory
factors involved in breastfeeding) can be found in both humans
and animal models. However, the few empirical studies investigating
this association have not found convincing support for a relation
between breastfeeding and the quality of the mother–infant
relationship. We therefore conclude that assumptions on a positive
role of breastfeeding on the mother–infant relationship are not
supported by empirical evidence, and recommendation of breastfeeding
should solely be based on its well-documented positive
effects on infant and maternal health.