I chose to breastfeed both my children for many reasons. It's the best thing I can do for them, it's free, I do not have to clean bottles, and when I leave the house, all I need is my baby, diapers and wipes! It seems so much easier than worrying about how much formula I have. Are there clean bottles? Do we have water for the bottles? And so on. I love it. And I'm proud to breastfeed. I am not ashamed; I will breastfeed anywhere we go without hesitation.
Sarah Hsia
Breastfeeding Mother
Breastfeeding in Public - Every new mom is nervous the first time she breastfeeds her baby in public.
A special bond occurs when a mom is breastfeeding her baby. Breastfeeding is for anytime, anyplace. Although the idea of sharing these moments in public may cause concern, moms should know that it is their legal right to breastfeed anywhere they are allowed to be. Breastfeeding in public can be done with confidence — most moms are already nursing in public and going completely unnoticed.
The key to nursing in public is to begin the feeding when your baby shows the first signs of hunger. These include:
- Sucking on their hands/fingers
- Making sucking noises with their mouth
- Turning their head toward the breast
Each time you nurse, you will feel more confident and at ease with breastfeeding your baby. This helps you feel comfortable when you begin to breastfeed in public. Here are some tips to help get you started:
- Wear comfortable clothing, such as layered shirts, that can easily adjust while nursing.
- Find the most relaxing position for you and your baby.
- Consider practicing at home in front of a mirror.
- Nurse your baby right before you leave.
- Pack a baby blanket to place over your shoulder or carry your baby in a sling, in case you want extra privacy while you breastfeed.
Look for a comfortable place where you can nurse when you arrive. This allows you to be ready when your baby is hungry.
- Many stores have areas designated for moms and babies that provide a quiet place to sit, as well as, a diaper-changing table.
- Some places, like food courts and in-store restaurants, offer open seating.
Be confident when nursing in public. Know that you are doing the best thing for your baby.
- When talking to people while nursing, keep eye contact with them so they will know it is all right for them to look at you.
- If you are by yourself in a large open area, focus on your baby’s eyes and face. After a while, you won’t even know there are others around you and they will be less likely to notice you.
- Texas law protects your right to breastfeed in public.
- Your local WIC office can provide you with a pocket-sized card that explains this law. You can also download one here. Use it to educate others about the right to breastfeed in public.
Nursing in public becomes easier each time you do it. By nursing in public, you are showing other mothers that it is possible to give your baby the best nutrition anytime, anyplace.
Nowadays, there are lots of cool products that help moms cover up while breastfeeding. You can use a baby blanket, shawl, towel or burp cloth. Many moms have found a clean diaper works well in a pinch.
Type "nursing cover" in your favorite search engine to get some good ideas of the specialty products that are available.
Type "nursing cover" in your favorite search engine to get some good ideas of the specialty products that are available.
