Breastfeeding in Public

When you become a mother, you should stop worrying about all those negative reactions breastfeeding in public can garner. Irrespective of whether you are at home or somewhere out, your newborn baby needs to be fed every 2 hours. Breastfeeding in public can be embarrassing but the sooner you get used to it, the better it will be for you. Some women are confident and comfortable with public breastfeeding whereas some are not. Ultimately, you should not have any guilt in nourishing your baby simply because you are in a public area.

Breastfeeding in public places like restaurants, shopping malls, and movie halls can be observed by others and that may make you uncomfortable. This is why most mothers feel hesitant at the thought of feeding their starving babies in public places. In many parts of the world, it is legal to breastfeed in public places, and in a country like India, it is quite normal in rural areas.

Whereas most metropolitan cities are organizing various events where nursing mothers can gather together in a public area and make an attempt to nurse their child to normalize public breastfeeding.

Can I breastfeed in public?

Yes, you can breastfeed in public. Although there isn’t a law in India regarding breastfeeding, it’s not wrong or illegal either. Breastfeeding in public is allowed, whether it’s in a café, on public transport in or a shop. You may feel self-conscious or nervous initially but remember, it’s the most natural and important thing you can do for your baby.

What is the ideal place for me to breastfeed?

Although you can breastfeed anywhere, you may want to start with some breastfeeding-friendly places in your local area. There may be a nursing room at your workplace, shopping malls, metro/train stations or airports around you. You may even ask the authorities for such a place or drop in your suggestion to provide one. Don’t worry, you will feel more confident and empowered with time.

Here Are Some Ideas to Help You Get Started

Breastfeeding in public is not at all against the law and that’s why you must keep these pointers in mind if you wish to breastfeed your hungry baby in public:

1. Know Your Rights

Don’t let strangers make you feel uncomfortable about breastfeeding in public. It is not illegal and you stand within your rights whenever you decide to breastfeed your baby in public places such as a public transport, a restaurant or a shop.

2. Clothes And Bra

You must opt for nursing tank tops that have built-in bras because it’s easier for you to shirt up and unhook the fastener. These breastfeeding-friendly tops don’t let you waste time and also don’t expose your belly or breasts in the public.

You can carry thin comfortable covering baby sheet or a scarf to conceal. The nursing cover will give you more freedom and confidence to breastfeed your child in public places.

3. Plan Ahead

If you are a new mom and feel uncomfortable stepping out of the house then you must practice the breastfeeding session in front of the mirror in the house as that will boost your confidence and you will not let your baby cry out of hunger in public places. You can also list down a few places where you can feel comfortable breastfeeding in public.

4. Baby Slings, Scarves and Cloths

Slings are quite comfortable and your baby can comfortably take a nap after the breastfeeding session. If you think the crowd is making you nervous then you must look at your baby once. When you notice how contented and happy your baby is it will bring you peace. You can also use a scarf or muslin cloth over your chest when breastfeeding.

5. Take Someone with You

Until you feel comfortable and confident about public breastfeeding, you may want to take someone such as your mother, sister, partner or friend with you so you have someone to talk to.

6. Stay Away from The Restrooms

There are plenty of spots for public breastfeeding, but the washroom isn’t one, especially public restrooms. You would never eat in a restroom, similarly, your baby should not be fed there either. You must find a secluded place where you can comfortably feed your child. You can ask for a mother’s room in a shopping mall, amusement park, or airport or you can try the backseat of your car. You must choose a place that is less chaotic and much quieter.

7. Turn away to latch

You can be a wallflower and latch your baby when you’re completely facing the wall and can turn back. You can do the same when you need to unlatch the baby. You can enjoy your meal by facing other dinner companions along with breastfeeding your child.

Closing Thoughts

Public breastfeeding should not be made a taboo. If you notice that people are staring at you or if anyone is looking at you with disapproval then all you have to do is just smile. You should not feel ashamed because you are doing the most important thing for your baby. Your baby relies on you and your breastmilk for essential nutrition and protection against several diseases. So, take a deep breath and embrace breastfeeding in public.