Breastfeeding in public can be a difficult and trying experience if you are not comfortable with the process. As with everything in life, comfort and confidence usually make anything you do go smoother. The thought of people staring at you while trying not to expose yourself can be incredibly intimidating. Hopefully the tips below can help whether you are new to breastfeeding or perhaps have had an uncomfortable experience in the past.
First of all, know that you have a right to breastfeed in public. There are laws that protect a mothers’ right to publicly breastfeed her child. West Virginia and Iowa are the only two states currently that do not have a law in place.
Florida’s law states that “A mother may breastfeed her baby in any location, public or private, where the mother is otherwise authorized to be, irrespective of whether the nipple of the mother’s breast is uncovered during or incidental to the breastfeeding.”
You may already be practicing several of these tips below but if not, hopefully some of these suggestions will help.
- You need to make sure you feel comfortable with breastfeeding in private before trying it in public. If you are having difficulty at home with your baby nursing properly, call your pediatrician or get help from a group that specializes in this such as La Leche League International.
- When you feel you have this down pat and are ready to try it in public, make sure you have the proper clothing. Either a button down shirt or one that lifts up easily from the bottom is best. If it looks like you are taking your shirt off, this could definitely make people stare and become uncomfortable!
- Wearing the proper bra that makes it easiest for you is important. Most the nursing bras have a flap that folds down to make it more discreet. Some women prefer a stretch bra as opposed to a nursing bra. You need to try several for yourself to see which is most suitable for you.
- Having a good blanket or nursing cover up will help you be more discreet and give you and your baby more privacy. It is important to experiment to see what works best for you.
- Try to find a good calm and quiet place to nurse. If you are surrounded by a lot of chaos the baby could become discomforted and fussy. Many places offer a family style bathroom where you can relax and have complete solitude. However, this is not always possible, so being prepared with many of the previous suggestions is best.
- Try to begin nursing before your baby gets fussy. It is much tougher to calm him or her down after they get very hungry. This way there is less attention drawn your way when you begin to breastfeed.
If you are having any concerns and questions regarding breastfeeding, as well as any other matters, our excellent doctors, nurses, midwives and staff at Gainesville’s All About Women Obstetrics and Gynecology will be happy to help.
Also, visit our knowledge center full of valuable information for women at all stages of life.
