Breastfeeding in Public
I always knew I was going to breastfeed this baby. When a breastfeeding mom asked me if I would breastfeed or bottle feed and I told them I would nurse, they would get so excited and tell me all the pros of breastfeeding. the one that was on everyone’s list was “It is so easy you can do it anywhere”. Indeed you can, but how? I am no a prude but I want to be discreet and comfortable at the same time.
Here are some ideas on how to nurse your baby in public.
Buy a 
. There are so many out there now and they come in great patterns and colors. They are inexpensive and are great to keep in the diaper bag or car. If you don’t want a cover try a breastfeeding bonnet for baby. It will keep baby’s little head out of the sun and cover your up as well.
Join a Nursing Support group. They have lactation consultants on hand to help you breastfeed properly and you can meet some other moms with little ones as well.
Get some great nursing wear. Nursing clothing has come a long way in the last few years. There are many great choices now and a few key pieces can go alone way.
Just do it. I was nervous the first time I nursed in public and I kept looking around making sure nobody was staring or nothing was showing. Silly, I know because I am just feeding a baby. Practice nursing in public. You are more aware of your nursing than anyone else.
Find a comfortable area (this has been my hardest task. You should be able to rent breastfeeding pillows when you are out!) and just go for it.
the more you do it, the more confident you will be and the easier it will be for you and the baby!
Do you have any tips for breastfeeding in public?
June 1st, 2008 at 6:39 pm
It’s the most natural thing in the world. I really enjoyed breastfeeding, there is a bond that is formed that just can’t be put into words. Feeding in public should not be frowned upon, adults eat in public all the time and we don’t point the finger and say “tisk tisk”.
June 19th, 2008 at 8:50 am
I breastfed all my children as well. I will never forget an incident with my ex when I was feeding my eldest. He actually asked me to leave the room in my own home because his friend was over. I said to tell him to leave the room if it makes him uncomfortable. Not as many seem offended if they see a breast outside of breastfeeding though. It seems very bizzare to me. It seems like people don’t want to face the function of a breast but they’re o.k. with it as a decoration.
June 30th, 2009 at 2:21 pm
[...] When I was new to breastfeeding, I would find it a little difficult sometimes. Especially when I was out in public. Where do I breastfeed that is safe, and private? How do I nurse without my breastfeeding pillows? Also, how can I keep myself covered in public. [...]