Nursing in Public

Breastfeeding in public can come with a variety of concerns for mothers.  Some include:

Do I have the right to nurse in public?

How do I ( Do I have to ) keep myself covered?

What will people say or think?

All nursing mothers should know that it is perfectly normal to feed her baby wherever they may be.  Many states are now developing laws to ensure that mother and baby are protected from any harrassment as a result of public nursing.

There are many things you can do as a nursing mother to manage public breastfeeding.  However, before you tackle these suggestions, you must first be comfortable with the idea of nursing in public.  Breastfeeding will not go smoothly in private or public if mom and / or baby is not comfortable and relaxed.

Tips for Nursing in Public

1.  Purchase a Nursing Cover – There are a variety of nursing covers designed to help mothers nurse discretely in   public.  They can be used in the park, on the subway, in restaurants, etc.

2.   Nurse at ‘Baby Friendly’ Stores – While your out running errands or shopping, inquire about stores that offer ‘baby care stations’.  These stores have nice, private locations where you can nurse and change your baby.

3.  Use Dressing Rooms – Many stores allow mothers to use dressing rooms to nurse their babies.  This allows you to be more comfortable and relaxed for breastfeeding.

4.  Purchase Nursing Tops – Nursing tops make it easier for a mother to put baby to the breast with ease and with  less chance of exposing their breasts.

5. Try a sling! – Nursing your baby in a sling is a great way to nurse without anyone knowing what’s going on.  You can also breastfeed and do others things at the same time!