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Breastfeeding in Public
What To Do When All Eyes Are On You

So, you have chosen to give your baby the best start possible by breastfeeding. Now, if you ever plan on leaving the house, chances are you will need to nurse while in public. Don’t hesitate! Babies need to breastfeed whenever they show hunger cues; sucking their fists, rooting, smacking their lips, and lastly crying. When it come to nursing in front of others, most moms will fall into one of two categories. Either they will openly, obviously nurse or they will hesitate because of modesty or concerns of the feelings of others. If you are of the first category, good for you! The more women who openly breastfeed in public, the more acceptable breastfeeding will become. You are paving the way for a future where breastfeeding will be the norm and readily accepted anywhere and anytime. If you are of the more modest of moms, you can still tend to baby’s needs while out and about. It is completely possible to nurse privately in public. Here are some tips to help you on you way. First, wear your baby. Most experienced nursing moms will hands down recommend learning and using a sling. A sling type carrier allows you to hold baby close to your body, nurse on demand, and do so discretely. Most people, unless they are other nursing sling wearing moms, will not even realize you are nursing a baby, they will assume your baby is asleep. Second, wear nursing clothing or shirts that lift easily from the bottom. This type of wardrobe will allow baby to nurse while keeping most of your skin covered. Third, if you are out in public and need a quiet place to nurse, just ask. Most stores will have a lounge you can sit in or will be willing to make something up in a pinch. Though, please, only nurse behind closed doors if it is for you or for baby; don’t worry about the inconsiderate bozos around you that may offer their negative comments. Fourth, arm yourself with information. Know why you are nursing your baby, why you need to nurse when baby asks, and why a bottle just won’t do. (For more information on the health benefits of breastfeeding see our August issue.) That way, if you do encounter rude comments you will have an answer. Be confident in what you are doing and know that you are offering you baby the best start possible.