Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful way to nourish your baby. However, the idea of breastfeeding in public can feel daunting for many new moms. It’s understandable to feel nervous about potential judgment or discomfort. This post will offer practical tips to help you gain confidence and breastfeed comfortably wherever you are.
Start Small and Practice
Begin at Home: Practice breastfeeding in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member. This can help you find comfortable positions and build your confidence.
Choose Familiar Places: Start by breastfeeding in places where you feel comfortable, like a friend’s house or a quiet coffee shop. Gradually expand to more public settings.
Practice Latching: Ensure your baby has a good latch. This minimizes discomfort and allows for efficient feeding, as well as efficient transitions between nursing and holding your baby.
Plan Ahead and Be Prepared
Dress for Success: Wear clothing that allows easy access for breastfeeding. Nursing tops, wrap dresses, and button-down shirts are great options.
Bring a Cover: A nursing cover can provide privacy if you prefer. However, don’t feel obligated to use one if you’re comfortable without it. Some babies even have a preference of having a cover or not.
Scout Locations: When going out, look for places with comfortable seating. If you prefer privacy, search out locations that have family restrooms or designated nursing areas.
Pack Essentials: Bring nursing pads, a burp cloth, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Manage Potential Concerns
Focus on Your Baby: Remember that breastfeeding is a natural and essential act. Your priority is feeding your baby.
Ignore Unwanted Attention: If you encounter negative comments or stares, try to ignore them. You have the right to feed your baby wherever you are.
Find Support: Connect with other breastfeeding moms online or in person. Sharing experiences and tips can boost your confidence.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your state’s laws regarding breastfeeding in public. In most places, you have the right to breastfeed wherever you are legally allowed to be.
How a Breast Pump Can Help
If you’re struggling to grow comfortable with breastfeeding in public, a breast pump can be a valuable tool for building confidence. Pumping allows you to express milk and have it available for your baby if you find yourself in situation where you are not comfortable to breastfeed. Perhaps it’s because your baby is fussy, there is no comfortable seating, or the crowd is too large for your liking. Whatever the reason, having pumped milk for bottle feeding may bring relief in certain public situations.
Hygeia Health is committed to supporting the breastfeeding journey, which often requires feeding in public and on-the-go and utilizing pumped milk. A reliable breast pump can make a huge difference in your breastfeeding experience. But did you know you can get a 100% insurance-covered breast pump? Hygeia can help. See if you qualify!
Building confidence in public breastfeeding takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself, and remember that you’re doing a great job. You have the right to feed your baby wherever you are.