Nursing in public: How to breastfeed in public with confidence

5 min. read

For many new mothers, nursing in public can feel daunting, at first. You’ve spent all this time at home, nurturing your little one, but you’re about to step out of your home and you want to feel confident in the way you feed your baby. It can be an overwhelming experience, especially when there are so many feeding options available, such as breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or pumping on the go!

This article will provide practical advice for breastfeeding on the go, bottle-feeding, and pumping in public – along with tips like how to cover up while breastfeeding, what to pack, and how to find confidence in your choice. 

Finding your comfort zone: Tips on how to nurse in public

Before we start looking at ways to breastfeed in public, it’s important to note that this is a personal choice. Some mothers feel completely at ease, while others may prefer more privacy.

If you’re a mother who wants to learn how to nurse in public but feels uncertain about it, consider these tips for breastfeeding in public to build up your confidence:

• Start in a comfortable environment: Try breastfeeding in public in a supportive space first, such as a mother-and-baby café! These are places where nursing in public will feel like a norm. Once you’re comfortable, start moving to busier areas. Over time, the entire process will become much easier. 
• Use a nursing cover or scarf: Worried about how to cover up while breastfeeding? Try a light muslin cloth or a specially designed nursing cover to offer some discretion. 
• Choose breastfeeding-friendly clothing: When you’re planning your outfit for the day, look for tops with easy access because they make breastfeeding on the go much easier. Nobody wants to struggle with finicky buttons when you’ve got a hungry baby in your arms!
• Take your time: Many women face challenges with milk production, even in public places, and especially when first trying to breastfeed. It’s completely normal to feel uneasy or frustrated. With practice, this feeling can fade, and breastfeeding in public will become easier and more natural over time. Be patient with yourself as you adjust to this new experience!

Another thing to remember is that nursing in public is not just a personal choice but also a protected right. Unfortunately, you may still encounter criticism or judgment from others while nursing in public. If this happens, it’s important to stay calm and speak to the establishment owners. Many establishments welcome breastfeeding mothers and even provide dedicated spaces to make the experience more comfortable. So, if you’re wondering how to breastfeed discreetly in public, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for a space just for you and your baby! Your comfort and well-being matter, and you deserve support while nourishing your child.