You probably wouldn’t think twice about a woman eating in public or a mom feeding her middle schooler snacks. Yet, there’s a societal stigma that often comes with breastfeeding. Moms might feel fear, anxiety or discomfort at the idea of breastfeeding in public.
Beastfeeding already takes a toll on moms and their bodies, with some moms struggling to breastfeed their babies. The simple truth is a baby has to eat, and a mom has to pump. Moms need a break from all the outside noise and pressure.
Adjusting to Breastfeeding in Public
Allegra Hill, co-founder of Kindred Space LA, midwife, and international board certified lactation consultant, explained that new moms should feel comfortable with breastfeeding or chest feeding anywhere outside of their homes.
“In the beginning, the process can be awkward as you learn how to get your baby to attach and eat from your body,” she said. “In your postpartum recovery time, the healing period allows you to learn how to feed in different positions (without the extra tools).”
Hill explained that one milestone to look out for is when you can attach the baby to eat while having a conversation. When you can, this means that you and your baby have done this task enough that you can do it while multitasking. However, in the beginning, it will likely take all of your attention to get the baby to attach and eat comfortably.
Comfort for Breastfeeding Women
When it comes to breastfeeding in public, it’s all about personal comfort level. While some moms may feel uncomfortable with breastfeeding or chest feeding in public, others might choose to express milk and bottle feed in public. Hill explained that some people feel uncomfortable with the amount they feel exposed. Other women might be uncomfortable with the idea of someone talking to them while they are feeding their baby in public.
“It’s important to check in and determine what is comfortable and best for you and your baby,” Hill said. “People are different so checking in with your own comfort level is important.”
In her personal experience, Hill recalled feeling uncomfortable breastfeeding her daughter in public. It also took time for her to get the latch comfortable.
“I had a lot of discomfort with the latch,” she said. “During postpartum, it took us a while to find positions that worked for my anatomy and my daughter’s anatomy to work together.”
Hill shared that she first learned how to breastfeed successfully at home. When she was ready to leave the house, she learned how to breastfeed in public, but she felt nervous about all the “what ifs.”
“Ultimately, when I tried to nurse my daughter outside of the home, I went to a moms group where I felt comfortable,” she said. “Of course, we were able to figure it out, and none of the ‘what ifs’ happened.”
Where to Breastfeed
All 50 states, along with the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, have laws that permit women to breastfeed in public and private places.
“A perfect place to breastfeed is anywhere a baby and parent want and need to do it,” Hill said.
Employers are also required to make accommodations for expressing milk. Since not all employers are aware of and working with those laws, Hill encouraged moms to discuss their needs with them. If they are unable to accommodate, try to educate them before discussing taking legal action.