The days after birth involve a dance of sorts. Mother and baby take turns leading and following while both adjust to the rhythm of new life. The world doesn't stop, however, even for new mothers. Eventually, all moms resume a routine that includes leaving the home and breastfeeding in a public setting.
Some moms are anxious at the thought of breastfeeding in public. After all, in the very early days, breastfeeding with any shirt or bra on at all can seem daunting. It's important to remember to relax. As mother and baby adjust, breastfeeding gets easier. Doing a little planning before baby is ready to breastfeed during excursions will likely help the situation not seem so overwhelming.
Planning Public Outings as a Breastfeeding Woman
Remember that practice makes perfect. The more often that mother and baby breastfeed, the easier each feeding will be. To ease her mind, a new mom can plan in advance about how she will want to handle breastfeeding in public. Does she need a completely private area? Does her clothing or accessories facilitate quick access to her breasts while still providing her desired level of coverage?
Once at her destination, a mom can scout the area for spots where she’ll be most comfortable breastfeeding. At a shopping center, for example, consider a comfortable bench, a mother’s room if available, or a dressing room. In restaurants, she can sit out of the way of high traffic areas. In a friend’s home, she can ask to use a different sitting area if uncomfortable breastfeeding in front of others.
If still feeling anxious at the thought of breastfeeding in public, La Leche League International's The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding (Penguin Plume, 2004) suggests practicing at home first. Latching baby onto the breast in front of one's partner, a close friend, or even in a mirror can alleviate stress over what might be visible while breastfeeding.
The Right Breastfeeding Clothing for Nursing Moms
The right clothing can make breastfeeding quite inconspicuous. Breastfeeding shirts or tank tops are specially designed with well-hidden slits for easy breastfeeding access and modesty. Even regular shirts that unbutton or lift easily from the bottom will work for breastfeeding in public as long as the mother is comfortable. The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding also points out that, depending on the breastfeeding position used, a baby may cover mother's torso.
Using a baby carrier such as the type sold by Maya Wrap is another inconspicuous way to breastfeed in public. As baby shows early signs of hunger or fussiness, mom can adjust baby's position and her clothing to begin breastfeeding, and the sling will keep her covered.
Blankets and cover-ups that have been designed specifically for breastfeeding moms are sold at stores such as Nursing Cover Boutique.
Breastfeeding in Public With Confidence
New motherhood is an overwhelming period. Once things begin to settle and a woman feels ready to try breastfeeding in public, a little planning will go a long way.
Evaluating how she feels about nursing her baby in front of others, and figuring out what measures can be taken to make herself comfortable, will likely help a mother ease her anxiety when faced with a feeding. Some moms are surprised at how few people realize they are even breastfeeding.
Whether a woman chooses to breastfeed in front of a few close friends or in a crowded area of unknown faces, with a cover-up or in her everyday clothes with no cover-up at all, she can be proud and gain confidence because she's giving her baby the very best start in life.
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