Scotland funds controversial ‘Queer Milk’ sessions that let men attempt infant feeding

In Edinburgh, the charity LGBT Health and Wellbeing runs weekly ‘Queer Milk’ support groups that invite men to give human milk to infants, a practice funded by the Scottish government, the NHS and local authorities. Organisers describe the program as inclusive of all feeding journeys, but medical experts note that men can only produce minimal fluid after extensive hormone treatment, which is not genuine breast milk. The scheme has ignited controversy, with figures such as Susan Smith of For Women Scotland dismissing the fluid as chemically engineered, and former La Leche League trustees resigning over safety worries.

The debate reflects a wider shift in breastfeeding organizations toward gender-neutral terminology, prompting legal action against an Australian counsellor who publicly stated men cannot breastfeed. Opponents claim the program normalises adult sexual fantasies involving children, while supporters argue it affirms transgender parents’ rights.