A shame-free public breastfeeding experience is possible: Here’s how
As a breastfeeding parent, it’s natural to have questions and concerns about breastfeeding in public. The last thing you want is to feel policed or watched while sharing an essential, nurturing moment with your child. You may be looking for reassurance or a friend to tell you what you’re doing is OK — more than OK.
While public breastfeeding is more accepted than it used to be, it still seems to attract a lot more attention than bottle-feeding — and unfortunately, not always the helpful kind. But here at The Lactation Network, our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants are here to assure you that you’re doing what’s best for you and your baby. It’s perhaps the most natural thing you can do as a parent and never something you should feel shame about.
TLN is your advocate, and your IBCLC is here to help you overcome barriers to breastfeeding in public so you can enjoy a positive, shame-free breastfeeding experience.
Breastfeeding difficulties in public places
Navigating breastfeeding and pumping in public can be challenging and stressful. There’s not always a lot of warmth or understanding, and it can make something that should feel natural and comfortable seem awkward and up for public consumption.
This is outrageous and unfair because breastfeeding is such a beautiful and normal part of parenting. It’s a big deal because it can impact how confident parents feel and even affect their decision to keep breastfeeding, which is so important for both the baby’s health and the special bond between parent and child.
Barriers to breastfeeding
One barrier parents face is the lack of facilities for pumping in public or breastfeeding discreetly. Without these spaces, the anxiety of finding a spot to nurse can be overwhelming.
Misinformation about breastfeeding rights is another barrier, leaving parents uncertain about where and how they can nurse outside the home. These obstacles not only discourage the act of breastfeeding but also impact the breastfeeding experience, leading to feelings of isolation and insecurity.
Policing and sexualization of breastfeeding bodies
As unbelievable as it seems in our modern times, society often casts breastfeeding in public as a provocative act rather than the nurturing one it is. You may have heard stories or perhaps even experienced how a moment of parental care quickly became a subject of public scrutiny.
Situations like these shatter the confidence of parents who wish to breastfeed in public spaces, with one in five moms from a recent survey reporting they had someone complain about their public breastfeeding. This turns what should be seen as a natural, healthy practice beneficial to both parent and child into a matter of public indecency, causing caregivers to question their rights out of fear of public shame or confrontation.
Vocal opponents of public breastfeeding might claim they’re safeguarding so-called “public morality” by policing culture and space. But in reality, this unneeded vigilance against something important, natural, and necessary just ends up making people — mostly women — feel ashamed of themselves, their bodies, and even their decision to have children. All of this undermines efforts to normalize breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding shame
Breastfeeding in public often becomes a battleground for parents. You may have already experienced the judgmental looks, questioning your choice to nourish your child out in the open. This can lead to breastfeeding shame — and in some cases, amplify existing body issues.
To dismantle these barriers, we need to empower parents by normalizing breastfeeding in public. One aspect of doing this is to create spaces where pumping and breastfeeding in public is as ordinary as feeding a child with a bottle. Communities can lead this change by proactively promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding.
Your public breastfeeding rights
If you’ve faced moments of hesitation or fear about breastfeeding in public, it can be extremely helpful to know your public breastfeeding rights.
For one, the Affordable Care Act has set a precedent, mandating that employers provide reasonable break times and private spaces, other than bathrooms, for new parents to express breast milk. This legislation empowers you, offering a layer of protection and reassurance.
Additionally, while laws vary across the states, they generally support breastfeeding in public places. These laws shield you from being penalized for nurturing your child in spaces outside of your home.
Familiarizing yourself with these laws is a critical step you can take to equip yourself to confidently stand your ground if faced with disapproval or shame for breastfeeding or pumping in public.
How to breastfeed with confidence
You might initially worry about the gaze of strangers or fear the backlash of those who don’t understand the importance of feeding your child whenever necessary. However, when you’re armed with knowledge and the law on your side, navigating public spaces while breastfeeding becomes less daunting. Understanding your rights helps you push back against outdated societal norms and is key to fostering confidence in your decision to breastfeed.
It’s also important to surround yourself with a supportive community. This may include talking to other breastfeeding parents who have had similar experiences or online groups offering advice and encouragement.
You may also want to consider investing in attire and accessories designed for breastfeeding on the go. Not only can these items make the entire process more convenient, but they can help you maintain a sense of privacy in public settings, if desired.
Finally, your mindset will significantly impact your breastfeeding experience. Embracing the act of nursing as a natural, empowering aspect of parenthood can help lessen your anxieties surrounding public breastfeeding. We know, that’s easier said than done. But if you can find people in your life or online who are vocal advocates for breastfeeding wherever your baby needs to eat — a.k.a. everywhere — they can help you build your own confident voice.
If you’re seeking personalized care and support tailored to your unique breastfeeding journey, request a consultation with one of our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants. Our experienced and compassionate clinical experts are here for you and are on your side. Always.
We’re here for you, every step of the way. We work with your insurance to provide in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits with an IBCLC.
