Breastfeeding in public: How should you do it?

For moms-to-be, opting to breastfeed can be a tough decision to make. While the choice to do so can help you enhance the bond that you feel with your baby – something that is especially important if you’re a first time mother

– there are many factors to consider, like how breastfeeding will affect your daily routine.

Feeding babies on a schedule is essential for not only supplying your little one with important nutrients, but for making sure that your guy or gal becomes better acclimated to getting his or her needs met.

However, if you’re a busy working or single mother, breastfeeding may pose some issues, particularly if you have to feed your little one while you’re out and about during the day. With these tips, you can learn how to make breastfeeding work for you in public.

Dress comfortably

If you’re about to take your baby out for an errand or you’re grabbing a quick bite with a pal, you should be mindful of what you’re wearing. While you may be the type of fashionista who relishes the look of sleek, form-fitting silhouettes – especially after those nine months you spent carrying around a jumbo baby bump –  it may not be time to whip out your mini skirts and halter tops just yet.

When you’re dressing, you should look for clothes that allow you to easily button and unbutton them. Instead of dresses with high necklines, for instance, consider two-piece ensembles that allow your little one access with ease. You don’t want to be hiking up your dress in the middle of brunch, right?

Read more: The case for public breastfeeding

Carry a blanket or sling

Depending on where you’ll be with your baby, you may have trouble balancing your little one’s weight in your arms or enjoying the level of privacy that you desire.

A blanket can make all the difference, giving you the opportunity to conceal your nursing (if that’s important to you) and help your baby feel more relaxed as he or she nurses. Not all little ones enjoy having a blanket or fabric draped overhead, so you’ll have to experiment to see what your son or daughter prefers. You may find that you’re more comfortable going without any coverage at all – and that’s perfectly OK.

Be proactive

Feeling anxious about the idea of breastfeeding in public? One of the best ways to lessen your nervousness is to take a proactive stance once you’re out and about. If you’re in a restaurant, try to scope out a table or area that may be out of view or discreet while you learn the ropes of nursing outside the nursery.

In addition, breastfeeding your baby before he or she starts to make a fuss can be a good way to prevent a ruckus in a public area and help keep your little one feeling calm in public settings.

— Abigail Tuller