TOP FIVE BEST TIPS FOR BREASTFEEDING IN PUBLIC
Breastfeeding in public is an absolute nightmare for some moms.
Overall, I found breastfeeding easy and was lucky. (It’s all here in this amazing course).
BUT there was one huge obstacle for me and that was breastfeeding in public. I found people stared a lot and it was so difficult to get settled properly and have a happy breastfeeding baby without getting my whole nipple out. One thing’s for sure throwing a muslin cloth over my baby’s head did not work for me.
So, in case you’re the exact same or you’re simply feeling unsure because you’ve not been breastfeeding in public, here are five tips to make breastfeeding as easy as possible.
Take your time. Before you even contemplate breastfeeding, make sure you’re 100% comfortable. This might mean switching seats, being able to lean against a wall, being in the corner of a cafe, getting a cushion. Whatever it means for you, take your time and get as comfortable as possible. You could be there a while! And you want to feel good.
Ignore everyone. Honestly if you have to get your whole nipple out so be it. If people choose to watch, ignore them. If you are a modest person and would rather not be semi nude in public, I know how you feel! But if you’re breastfeeding in public (because your baby’s hungry!!) then own it and do what you need to do to make sure your baby gets a proper latch and is happy. The ironic thing is by forgetting about everyone else, you probably show less nipple and skin in the long run because you take that time initially to get it right, rather than constantly having to rearrange or starting again if it hasn’t gone right.
Be honest. If you feel nervous or emotionally uncomfortable make sure the people around you know. Your husband or mum or friend or whoever you’re with might have no idea how you’re feeling. My friend nearly left me breastfeeding on a park bench because she had no idea she was the fragile glue keeping everything together. I DID NOT WANT TO DO IT ALONE. So, make sure you voice your feelings loudly so there’s no confusion and you get the support you need.
Ditch the bra. Wearing the right clothes is essential to your breastfeeding in public success. So, wear a breastfeeding bra or ditch it entirely. Avoid t-shirts and dresses. Wear jumpers and cardigans and tops with buttons or super stretchy necks so you can breastfeed easily. You need quick easy access when breastfeeding in public especially if you feel nervous or shy.
Don’t force it. Finally, if it’s not for you then express your milk beforehand and try feeding your baby out of a bottle when you’re out and about. For some people, breastfeeding in public never gets easier and is a really stressful experience. So, my best advice is. . . it’s not worth it. You are doing enough as a mum. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you feel terrible. Expressing and feeding from a bottle could be the saviour you’ve been looking for.
For the best breastfeeding course for gentle mamas who want to make breastfeeding as easy as possible pre-order the Abundant Baby Breastfeeding Course now. It’s everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable breastfeeding bonding experience with your bundle of joy. The course covers absolutely everything including breastfeeding in public, how to start breastfeeding, what to eat, what to drink, the mindset you need and of course, how to stop breastfeeding. This course has got you covered!
