So, you are a new mom and making your best attempt at breastfeeding your infant. You’re at home trying to nurse your new baby and struggling to get the baby to have that perfect latch. Finally, after multiple attempts, there's silence, no more screaming, your baby is eating and very happy!
Breastfeeding can be quite challenging at times, especially with new mothers. Since breast milk offers numerous benefits to newborns, many mothers want to pass those along to their baby. But it is not always possible to feed your infant in the comfort of your own home at all times. Babies are not aware of eating schedules and need to eat when they are feeling hunger, which could be anytime, anywhere. They depend on us to supply that food, along with the comfort and connection that is associated with breastfeeding.
So, maybe you are at the local library, mall or park and your baby is rooting and displaying other hunger cues and needs to eat now. It looks like you have to breastfeed in public. Despite your best efforts at getting your baby to latch on, your nervousness and lack of privacy is making you even more uncomfortable and many people are now looking your way. Some individuals are even making unpleasant faces at you, as if breastfeeding in public is a lewd act. How do you handle such criticism, particularly if you are a new mother?
Unfortunately, we live in a society where women are overly sexualized, in particular our breasts. Because of that mentality, many see breastfeeding in public almost as a crime. Despite laws stating that mothers are permitted to nurse their child in public, many mothers continue to receive negative reactions and comments from people and store owners.
There are many approaches to handle this criticism. First, try ignoring these disrespectful comments. Second, ask a question back or comment back to that individual and enlighten them about why breast milk is so vital for a baby’s development. There are also some ways that mothers can make themselves feel more comfortable about nursing in public. First, try practicing at home in front of a mirror. You will be able to see how much of your breast is showing (which is not much, because your baby practically covers you), and help decide whether or not to cover up more. A nursing canopy or nurse sling makes it comfortable for both baby and you while breastfeeding. Wearing a nursing bra and by wearing clothes that are suitable to nurse makes it easier to breastfeed your baby. You will not be exposing too much while out in public and also these clothing items will make you feel more comfortable, thus setting your baby at ease and will be more easy to feed.
Sometimes there is just too much noise or too many distractions in public for the baby and you may need to have the baby latch on in private first. Finally, by socializing with other breastfeeding mothers, will enable you to seek out any advice and or suggestions regarding breastfeeding in public.
Having that confidence about breastfeeding in public will show other mothers that they have support and can nurse their babies in public also. The more mothers that breastfeed their babies in public, the more society will accept that as the norm.
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