Breastfeeding when you are out and about
It is important that women feel supported and safe when nursing in public and we should create a culture where no mother feels pressured to stop nursing when she really wants to keep doing it, just because she doesn’t feel supported or comfortable doing it.
Breastfeeding in public can mean in front of relatives or friends in your own home or in a public place, such as a café or a shop.
An old but still relevant piece of qualitative research that was conducted here in the North East explored the 'space' in which a woman finds herself breastfeeding. One 'space' which often is not considered is at home with male friends /relatives as the dynamic often feels uncomfortable.
During the early days, we breastfeed where we feel most comfortable and where we can practice and grow in confidence. As your confidence grows you will start to think about breastfeeding when you are out and about.
The First 40 Days
Here are some ideas to get you started.
Know your rights
You should never be made to feel uncomfortable about feeding your baby.
It is against the law for anyone to ask a woman to stop feeding their infant or leave a public place because they are breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding rights
Think about where you will feel comfortable feeding when your baby is hungry. Ask breastfeeding friends for recommendations.
Consider what you wear
What you wear is a matter of personal taste eg some mums like to wear loose tops that can be lifted up. Others prefer their tummy covered and wear two stretchy tops, so that the top layer can be lifted up and the bottom layer pulled down. A soft non-wired bra can be easily lifted up and down.
What to wear
Baby slings, scarves and cloths
Some slings are designed in such a way that you can breastfeed while your baby is still in the sling. some mums feel more comfortable laying a scarf or muslin cloth over their chest whilst breastfeeding.
Emmas Diary, ten of the best baby slings
Expert review, best baby carriers
local sling meet
Take someone with you
It can help to go with a friend who has an older baby and can take you to places that she already knows. You could go with someone else such as mum, partner, sister or friend so you have someone to talk to.
Avoid the loos
Don't feel like you should sit in a toilet to breastfeed. You wouldn't eat there, so don't feel that your baby should.
these images hit home for me
After giving birth you may prefer to stay close to home
Taking it easy and lots of breastfeeding will help you to regain your strength and build up a good milk supply while getting to know your baby.
When you are ready to go out a short walk, a drive to local shops or visiting a friend may be enough.
Remember to listen to your body and pace your activity to your energy level.
Going out can prevent you from feeling isolated and given structure to your day.
Breastfeeding babies are very portable and will often sleep contentedly when carried close in a sling or carrier. You might even get there and back while baby is asleep.
Breastfeeding in public places
A crying baby will guarantee an audience so watch for early feeding cues so you have time to find a suitable place.
Other people probably won't notice you are breastfeeding if you are relaxed and confident, especially if you continue chatting or reading the menu and avoid eye contact with passersby.
Lifting your top from the waist means your baby hides your tummy and you remain covered.
Dependent on the weather, you could an open blouse or shirt or cardigan over a t shirt.
Dress your baby in a sun hat if you feel self-conscious or practice in front of your partner or a mirror.
If you prefer privacy, many public places have mother and baby rooms where you can sit and nurse and change baby's nappy.
Some clothes shops will make a changing room available at quiet times.
Mothers breastfeeding in many public places with seating areas. Look out for quiet spots with fewer distractions and some babies insist on looking around instead of feeding when there is lots of hustle and bustle.
mothers thoughts
Planning ahead
With time, you'll learn what you are likely to need while out and about with your baby, including nappies, baby wipes and change of baby clothes. a favourite toy for an older baby is worth carrying. Don't forget a bottle of water for yourself. Breastfeeding is thirsty work.
A sling or carrier can be easier than a pram or buggy where there are steps or uneven surfaces. It also keeps your baby close. If you have shopping to carry a push chair can be helpful - you can still take a sling to carry your baby if he gets restless.
Breast pads inside of your bra will provide some protection from leaks if you experience them. Avoid plastic backed pads, which can trap wetness next to the skin and cause soreness.
If you feel the tingling of your milk beginning to flow, pressing hard on your nipple for several seconds can prevent leaking. You can do this by crossing your arms tightly across your chest and pressing firmly on your nipples with the palms of your hands. hold for a few seconds before releasing and all should be well. If it doesn't work the first time, try again for a little longer. If your breasts feel full, this is a sing to take the time to nurse your baby.
Patterned fabrics, layered clothing and scarves can hide evidence of leaks.
Flexible approach. Rather than thinking of nursing as a major event around which to structure your day. It can be helpful to treat it as something that happens along with the other events of the day.
If you nurse your baby at fixed intervals he may need to nurse for an hour or more to take insufficient milk. It can be hard to get out and about with a baby who is feeding for long periods. While a baby nursing little and often is more likely to need to breastfeed while you are out and about, it can be easier to fit in shorter nursing sessions. Many babies become very efficient at breastfeeding by 3 months of age and feeds can be accomplished very quickly. Some babies find it difficult to cope when travelling, on holiday, visiting family etc. If they have strict routines which cannot be followed because of travel arrangements and lack of access to a separate room for sleep. When you follow your baby's natural feeding and sleeping rhythms such problems are less likely and you may feel more relaxed about visiting relatives or taking a family holiday.
Travelling with you baby
Breastmilk is the ultimate travel food. There's no need to carry any feeding equipment and your baby's favourite food will always be on hand, even if your journey is delayed.
Public transport
When hopping on/off buses and trains a carrier or sling is a real boon with or without a push chair. Modern train doors are usually wide enough for pushchairs and many buses have low floors for easy access. A back pack can be a useful handbag, leaving your hands free for baby.
In the car
Plan to stop frequently and give your baby breaks from the car seat. It can help to time long journeys for when he usually sleeps. Avoid rush hour if you can.
Place the car seat where you can easily see baby as you drive. An extra mirror can be useful if your baby travels in the back. Bear in mind, if your baby gets upset, this can distract you while driving. Letting someone else drive where possible leaving you free to calm your baby.
Babies are usually happier is cars if they can see your or another adult. You can sing, talk to baby to reassure him that you are there. If baby doesn't like the car, maybe easier to take public transport.
Flying
Bulkhead or aisle seats allow you to get up easier to settle baby without disturbing other passengers.
Breastfeeding when landing or taking off can help to equalize the pressure in baby's ears, keeping him comfortable if seatbelt is uncomfortable.
A breastfeeding mothers experience of breastfeeding when travelling
