Comfortably Breastfeeding in Public
Breastfeeding is the best nutritional source for an infant.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, and that breastfeeding continues for the first year.
While parents and pediatricians know and accept the many benefits of breastfeeding, nursing in public can still feel like a taboo for many new mothers, causing feelings of self-consciousness or anxiety. Getting comfortable with breastfeeding in public is a necessity for any mother who would like to breastfeed her baby and have the freedom to run errands, travel, or anything else that requires leaving the privacy of home. Once you have grown confident and comfortable with breastfeeding in public, you can enjoy the flexibility to do what you need to do, and rest assured that you will always have the ability to feed your little one in any circumstance.1. Know Your RightsThe first step to being comfortable is knowing that you have the legal right to breastfeed your baby in public. Forty-nine states, including Illinois, have laws that protect a woman's right to breastfeed her baby in public. Check out this website for more specifics on a state-by-state basis.2. Get the GearInvest in some items that will make breastfeeding in public more comfortable, especially if modesty is important to you. Also, be sure to try out any new gear at home. You don't want to have to figure out the hook on that new nursing tank top while sitting in Starbucks holding a wailing baby!
- Nursing covers, scarves, and ponchos allow for privacy while breastfeeding. Keep in mind that some babies will be bothered by covers, and be sure to look for lightweight, breathable materials to avoid overheating.
- Nursing tank tops allow you to lift your top shirt and have easy access to your breast without the need to bare your stomach.
- Baby carriers such as Ergos or ring slings can be great for nursing on the go. With a well-placed scarf and a baby carrier, you can breastfeed while shopping at the supermarket, and no one will ever know!
- A travel nursing pillow is also an option if you are used to using a Boppy or other nursing pillow at home.
Have a Breastfeeding BuddyDon't attempt your first public breastfeeding session alone; bring your partner or a friend with you. At the very least, the moral support and encouragement will help to boost your confidence. You may also find that you need help juggling your baby, nursing cover, clothing, and getting that perfect latch while in an unfamiliar environment. It may be a struggle at first, but it will definitely get easier with practice!Seek Community SupportResearch a breastfeeding support group in your area, such as La Leche League or another local organization. This will give you a chance to meet other nursing mothers and their babies, discuss breastfeeding or other issues, and will give you an opportunity to nurse in a public, but very supportive, environment. You may even find a community on social media, where there is a push to #normalizebreastfeeding. It may be empowering to witness or reach out to women who are advocating for themselves and their right to breastfeed their babies in public without shame.Find What Works for You:Be open to adapting your breastfeeding practices. As your baby grows, or as you become more comfortable with breastfeeding, you may decide to ditch the nursing cover altogether. You may identify certain places where you do not feel comfortable breastfeeding, and choose to pump and bring a bottle when you are going there. Breastfeeding is a very personal experience between you and your baby, and you should make the choices that reflect what is best for both of you.Please contact your pediatrician at Bard & Disriksen Pediatrics for more information!
