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The fact that breastfeeding is natural, normal, and portable is plenty enough reason to want to breastfeed your child. Knowing that it is your legal right is also empowering to many moms who might refrain from breastfeeding in the middle of a crowded public area. Other moms may still feel uncomfortable with the process. If you want to breastfeed in public, know that it is your right — and follow these tips to make it more comfortable for yourself and your baby.
Understand your rights
It is legal in all 50 states to breastfeed in public and private locations. Some states offer moms more rights than others, so it is wise to keep a copy of your state’s law in your diaper bag, just in case. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires employers to offer a place other than a bathroom for nursing moms to feed their babies. If you feel harassed or threatened, it might be time to file a formal complaint or consult an attorney.
Keep in mind that being polite yet assertive is usually all that is needed. “Assertiveness is about expressing your wants, needs, or rights without intentionally harming someone else,” mental health professional Sharon Fisher told Mom.com.
Fisher gave us a common example, of a mom nursing in a park on a hot day, and how that mom might respond when someone persists to get her a cover. “Redirect the conversation, ‘How are you?’ Do not budge on your stance,” Fisher recommends. “If needed, thank the person for their concern and then wish them a nice day.” This ceases the conversation.
Understanding your rights doesn’t mean you have to nurse in public if you aren’t comfortable. Personally, it didn’t matter that it was my right to nurse — I still didn’t feel comfortable nursing in public. So, first of all, make sure that you will feel at ease nursing your baby in a public place. Remember, if you aren’t comfortable, your baby will likely be uncomfortable or you may have trouble with milk letdown.
Tips for breastfeeding in public
Have comfortable clothing and gear
Wear clothing that makes it easy to access your breasts. There are many types of blouses and nursing bras that make it easier to nurse and can help you remain discreet.
While you may prefer to nurse with a pillow for comfort at home, learn to nurse without it. Having a lightweight blanket to drape might you be more comfortable.
A baby carrier can be a big help. “When you are carrying your baby on your front, especially in a soft structured carrier like an Ergo, you can just lengthen the straps and snap the hood up for coverage and allow your baby to nurse,” Samantha McClellan, a certified childbirth doula, told Mom.com. She added that this helps when moms are busy running around with other children too and “allows for lots of coverage for those that feel more comfortable with that.”
Take care of your needs, too
As moms, we are always concerned about our kids. When you are breastfeeding, your baby always has a food supply but don’t forget to pack water and a snack for yourself, as well. You need to remain hydrated and filled with nutrients to keep the milk supply running and full of those healthy antibodies.
Find a quiet place when possible
Finding a quiet place to nurse isn’t about privacy or what others may think, it’s about giving your baby a space where they will not be distracted while nursing. Curious kids may be more interested in the kids playing next to you rather than staying on the breast. This makes for an inefficient feeding session. When possible, look for a quiet corner away from commotions, such as distractions in a restaurant, so your baby will focus on nursing and not everything else. Some businesses are even setting up custom breastfeeding spaces.
Avoid bathroom nursing
We would never think to hand our child a sandwich in a bathroom, so why would we want to nurse in a bathroom? You're nursing to give your baby the healthiest meal she can have, so don’t jeopardize that by exposing her to the plethora of germs found in the bathroom. Find a lounge or private nursing station, if you don’t want to be nursing in a crowd.
Find a support group
There is power in numbers and having other moms who understand you. Talk to other moms in your mom groups or join a support group just for breastfeeding. This can help you find more comfort in and benefits with the whole breastfeeding process. As Jennifer Slezia told Mom.com, “I found support and courage in local La Leche League meetings.”
Remember that breastfeeding is normal, healthy, and legal. Find ways to make yourself comfortable and feel empowered. Surround yourself with supportive people and continue to give your baby the healthiest headstart possible with breast milk.
