Breastfeeding in public - people's comments, page 2

The following comments are from various visitors to www.007b.com. 007 Breasts is not necessarily endorsing everything written in the comments. The comments and opinions below belong to the commenters who made them. The comments are posted here because they might further help and encourage men and women who visit this website; however 007 Breasts is NOT responsible for the comments nor for any loss or damage caused by reading them.

I'm 31 and had my first child at the ripe old age of 17. I breastfed him exclusively for the first 7 months of his life until he weaned himself. Not sure why exactally, but it broke my heart. Being so young, I recieved a variety of responses when breastfeeding in public. And also in my own home around my friends. I've never been shy and never felt the need to cover up the fact that my child was hungry and I was able to magicly feed my child with little effort. My 3rd son was born when I was 27 and I proudly breastfed him until he was 2. I am currently in college and have applied the subject of breastfeeding to 2 out of my 4 classes this semester. I've written 3 papers on the subject and am aceing those classes. I am very passionate about the subject and, if I ever have another child, I will proudly and NOT discreetly feed my child when and where he/she is hungry! I encourage all mothers to continue to be proud of the fact that you are able to give your child the greatest gift of all, Mother's Milk.

Heather

It's right of a newborn baby & public who see these images of NATURE. I hope it can change the world's most powerful nation's theory. Regards.

SHAHZAD

I remember my Mom flipped out because I breastfed in a restaurant. I was discreet, using a baby blanket to cover myself first! She never breastfed and was worried about others being offended. I told her, I am hungry, the baby is hungry and I am a paying customer... we're eating!

Christina

I have not breastfeed, but when I get married and have chldren I have already decided that I will. I came upon the topic of breastfeeding in public because I had to do a persuasive speech for my public speaking class. I am 100% PRO-BREASTFEEDING IN PUBLIC! I never knew this was such an issue because I had never seen anyone do it! Now that I know more about the topid, I am appalled to see how many people say they have received "dirty looks or stares" while breastfeeding in public. I think this is an issue that needs to be discussed in public, and people need to be more enlightned on the issue. I can't believe that women dislike breastfeeding in public more than men! My own mother said she "thinks it is something private that should be done in the comfort of your own home." I was outraged when she said that! Women should be allowed to breastfeed anywhere and anytime they get ready! A woman should not be required to use a cover if she doesn't want to! I hope more people realize the seriousness of this issue and become more informed, so America will be a better place to live!

Jessica E

I believe that God has given a mother the best way to natural her baby. I have always thought it has been one of the most beautiful things I have witnessed as a father and man. I understand some women are not able to breast feed their baby and this is not any fault of theirs. Therefore, we have additional alternatives to nourish our babies.

Robert

Try it if you can!! My son was in hospital for the first 3 weeks of his life and found it very difficult to breast feed so I expressed milk (he was in intensive care for a while so was tube fed as well as bottle fed) Once my son was out of intensive care I continued to bottle feed but also try breast feeding. I used nipple shields to encourage his latch on and protect my nipples when they became too sore. I knew that breastfeeding would be great for my child and stuck at it. PLEASE stick at it if you can. (it took us nearly 4 weeks) Breastfeeding is amazing. It not only nourishes your child brilliantly, but it is easy to manage (once you've got used to it!) There is nothing more satisfying then being stuck on a bus with a crying baby and just quickly being able to feed them. If you are worried about looks, then my advice is always have a big scarf on you if you want to cover up. Sometimes you will feel the need to and other times you won't. You judge where you are and how you feel. DON'T BE PUT OFF by other people. Don't let anyone take away the greatest satisfaction that a mother can have. Don't get worried about your breasts sagging or changing shape - they are doing what nature intended them to do. Relish in that fact. There is no small truth in the statement "Breast is Best"!!!!!!!!

LVO

I was never shy about breastfeeding in public. It was the most natural thing in the world to me, and I doubt most people, with the exception of other nursing mothers, were even aware that I was doing it. I used nursing bras in the beginning, but ended up using regular bras, and just pulling it, and my shirt up. The baby covered the bottom of my breast, and my shirt covered the top. I nursed on demand, and when the baby was hungry, or needy, I nursed regardless of where I was, or who I was with. I never experienced any negative reactions. I nursed both of my babies until they weaned themselves at about 2 years old.

Selena

It really is a shame that most mothers are allowed to give up on breastfeeding because 'it's too hard'. Most doctors are too willing to facilitate formula feedings that no one is really encouraging these mothers to stick with it. When my oldest was five months old I became pregnant again (despite the fact that I was exclusively breastfeeding). By the time he was 9 months old my body was unable to produce milk and I had to start supplementing him with formula. My heart broke. Now that he's 18 months old he's addicted to his bottle which is such a nasty habit. I hope that my 4 month old never has to go through that.
I also had a pregnant friend who was surprised to hear that I breastfed. She insisted she would never do it, "It's unnatural". I replied to her, "Yeah, bottle feeding is extremely natural. That's why you see cats and dogs and other animals doing it." She's now breast feeding her baby! :) Sometimes we have to be the support for our friends that have no one else to encourage them.

Jenna

I am a 50 year old man. Up to the age of, say, 30, I never saw a breast being used for its proper and natural function. On the occasion that I do see a woman breast feeding, I try to be polite, but cannot help but try to sneak a look. I am not sexually titillated, or "turned on" by the sight, but it is just something so delightful to witness. It is like I am sharing a precious secret... I do not know... I swear that my thoughts on such occasions are not sexual, but I do feel a flood of what must be endorphin-- just a peaceful and joyous feeling. I try not to get caught looking, because I do not want to make the woman feel uncomfortable, and God forbid, that the woman should think that I am "oogling".

I just wanted to give you one man's view on the subject.

Kris

I am not a mother but I am very familiar with issues involved with breastfeeding children and especially with breastfeeding children until a older age. I've been thinking about the issues of public breastfeeding a lot of late, I'm in College in Dublin, Ireland and I had a conversation with a few English and Irish friends the other night, they told me how uncomfortable they are with women who breastfeed in public and with breastfeeding for more then the first 6 months to 1 year. Now I know that these attitudes are not all that different from ones held my most Americans but as I grew up with the children of La Leche League members I have never had to deal with these opinions.

My mother was 35 years old when she had me, I was her first, I was breastfeed exclusively for the first year and in combination with other foods until I was 4, the only reason that I stopped at this point was that my mother became pregnant with my sister and I no longer liked the taste. My sister was breastfeed until she was 6 years old. most people feel that there is something very wrong with how long my mother chose to breastfeed us, both my sister and I have been told many times that it is weird/unhealthy/wrong, I have never been able to see what they are talking about. My sister and I are both very healthy, intelligent women that have every intention of following in our mothers foot steps and breastfeeding our children for as long as they want.

I don't know if it is contacted or not, but both my sister and I have always had a very good relationship with our mother, when I was a teenager and all my friends were fighting with their mothers I still got along very well with mine, I watched the same thing happen with my sister, we never really lost the closeness that we had as small children when we were breastfeeding.

Meade

I breastfed my daughter for 18 months. She is allergic to cow's milk, and milk protein I drank passed through to her in my milk, but once we figured it out, I eliminated it from my diet. I can't imgaine what would have happned if I'd tried to give her milk-based formula.

The hardest part of breastfeeding is definitely other people's reactions. My inlaws acted like they'd seen me completely nude if they ever caught me nursing and I always used a blanket to cover.

Beth

Because breastfeeding in public is so taboo here in the USA, my husband and two of his friends have finished a screenplay about breastmilk and all of its wonderful benefits. The script is stil in the development process and we're looking to get this comedy produced. The only way for "others" see the importance of such a film, we need LOTS of people to visit our page on MySpace. Our address on MySpace is www.myspace.com/doesabodygoodthemovie. Thank you soo much and keep BREASTFEEDING!

Tumaini

I am pregnant now and am planning to breastfeed. I have never seen a women breast feeding ni public. I am VERY nervous about attempting this myself. I am worried for both modesty reasons and th reactions that might come with it. If I do become comfortable with the idea, I would definatly use a cover. I've been researching the general view towards public breasfeeding, trying to help my comfort level. It surely didn't help. Many people, especially those who do not have children, think that women should find somewhere private or use a bathroom. Most bathrooms do not have anywhere to sit and be comfotable... plus it is a bathroom. I rarely want to use public restrooms, let alone eat in one. Why should my child? As for room specifically for breast feeding... I have NEVER seen that! It is disappointing to see the negative reactions that I have and I hope that I'll be able to be comfortable enough to not have to go through hours of unneeded hassle to avoid public breast feeding.

I am stunned that there are such ignorant and sensitive people about who will take offense and feel distressed at the sight of other people. What we all need is to become militantly nude! And encourage global warming.

Coll

I am a male and usually like finding more about the things that make women be discriminated. I love women, particularly mothers who bring up their child from childhood to adult to be better persons. Well my recommendation is that women should not be embarrassed but stand for their rights in the society

Adrale Martin

Hi! I breastfed my daughter until she was 18 months old and started pushing me away. I am now breastfeeding my 11 month old son. I have always breastfed in public proudly. Once even while standing in line at Disney waiting for a ride. I love the fact that when my daughter plays with her dolls, she pulls up her shirt and 'nurses' them. When she's on playdates and friends offer her a bottle for her baby, I have to stifle a laugh when she says 'why would I give a baby a bottle?'. She simply has never seen it done. I love it!

Maria Thomson Longwood, FL

It's 50/50 we have laws that permit a woman to nurse in public. I am currently nursing my 18 month son- he doesn't nurse as much as he use to, but when he wants it- he wants it! I nurse in public beecause I believe it is important for women to see it. Sometimes people stare, frown, smile, whatever- It's best for my child! Besides people shove bottles in babies mouths in public-why can't I do my thing in public!

Jamita S.

I breastfed both my daughers, now 23 and 25. I breastfed in public on a regular basis and had no qualms about pulling my shirt up and exposing my breast to feed my child. I don't ever recall anyone commenting or giving me nasty looks, even in conservative Pensacola, Florida. It seems that the more exposed young women's bodies are, as with the current clothing trends expose more and more breast, the less acceptable breastfeeding has become. Men, and lots of women, see the breasts as sex items. To be reminded that breasts are actually for feeding the young, that seems to be way too confrontational! I know very few women who are having babies now, but I encourage any breastfeeding mother to continue to breastfeed as long as possible and anywhere your baby needs feeding. On demand, breastfed babies are so much healthier!

Catharine

The only breastfeeding woman I have encountered was when I was about 7, in a park. She showed her breast to a bunch of kids including myself. She was fully showing her breast to everyone that walked by, no attempt to cover herself.

I am a 28 year old woman.....i remember my mother nursing me until I was a 6 year old little girl. I was straightly breastfed until I was 1 years old. I can remember it tasting sweet warm milk.

She felt strange with my bother and only nursed him until 3 months because he was a male. But with me it was easier... cause I was a female baby. We developed this bond. I urge all women to nurse their daughters longer because they grow to become mothers and if you nurse them longer they will nurse longer too. It's important for mothers with baby girls - to have a mother daughter bond for life.

I am now a mother of a 6 month old baby girl and she loves my milk... she is the most important gift in my life!

My own father was very offended that I would breast feed in front of him without a blanket -- even though my own mother breast fed all of us kids!

And as for being discreet -- My girl needed to eat and so I began to nurse her in front of a friend of my husbands while we were all chatting together in the living room.

He didn't even notice me lift up my shirt slightly to nurse my daughter.

When we got up to see him out the door, my shirt falling down over my breast as my daughter unlatched, he said, "Oh, you don't need to get up if she's sleeping."

I said cheerfully,"It's okay. She wasn't sleeping. I was feeding her."

He was shocked and uncomforatble! The entire time he had not noticed what was really happening. He thought I was only holding my sleeping baby. :)

Elena
elenadahle.com

P.S. I breastfed my daughter until she was about 2 1/2.

I think that too many people in the world especially in the United States are losing sight of importance. Too many years have passed over looked by shallow reason for the thing we do in life, and personally I believe if you do things out of goodness it will be taken that way. If its done out of crudeness it will be taken that way. For those whom believe breastfeeding is grose or out of line expressed publically, just know it makes it hard for mothers to doWhats in there heart. If this behavior continues it wont be long and breast feeding will be a thing of the past and thats SAD! So If You see a mother nursing her baby (anywhere) I feel it should be encouraged with great love!

Karen R. Rily

I think it is perfectly natural to breastfeeding anywhere, because after all that is what God made women's breasts for.

Mary

In Tahiti the ladies went without any tops, except at the grociery store. Then they put on a BRA. This was 20 years ago. I doubt it has changed.

Don

Kuddos on the site! My wife breastfed our two children for 2 years each. We both realy enjoyed and promote exclusive nursing. Thank you for standing up for and promoting breastfeeding! Keep up the good work on getting the word out on the benefits of breastfeeding! Thank you also for letting women out there know that the breasts God gave them look, feel and "hang" that way for a reason. Do not be ashamed of your breasts, a real man will love you for you, not your breasts.

AJ

Once I found myself staring at a woman breastfeeding her toddler in public. She was getting embarrassed when I noticed my own staring. I then smiled at her, as if apologizing. I wish she knew I was staring with envy of such a beautiful moment I witnessed because my daughter had gave up breastfeeding before I wanted to. So, sometimes people stare because it's so beautiful! Kya

I myself am not a mother, but I have found America to be rather picky about the whole breastfeeding thing. There are a lot of people that say it is natural and all, but do it in the bathroom or at home. Too many people here think breasts are sexual, and that's it. Women who breastfeed in public usually cover themselves up with a blanket. In my state, there is a law that you cannot ask a breastfeeding woman to leave becuase she is nourishing her child, but the law also says a woman has to be discreet. I've been asking around a lot about people's opinions on breastfeeding (I'm doing a paper on it) and a suprising number of people have told me it's gross, and they don't want to see it.

It may be possible that people are telling me rather bluntly their feelings on the subject, as I am not a breastfeeding mother.

Emily

I think that breastfeeding should be recognoised as a part of life and that it should be done wherever the mother feels comfortable feeding

Sam

I breastfeed my son who I now 10 months old. It is hard to feed him now at his age because so many people look at it like I am crazy. In the beginning people accept it easier and know that you are just trying to keep your child healthy but when they are older people think you are somehow being overly sexual with your child. Some once committed to me that it was like I was raping my child. I think people are just plain dumb. To think about obesity when we give our children canned milk. Aren't we giving his processed food already; where are the vitamins in a can.

Minnie

I think that a man's need to make women refrain from public breastfeeding comes from the same place as a man's need to have women cover their faces, as is forced in some cultures. It's enforcement of "modesty" due to their fear of having to face or repress a sexual feeling, or at least it's hyper-prudishness, enforced on others for the sake of trying to "appear" hyper-moral.

Ken

Myself I feel that as a human nature woman should be allowed to breast feed in any way they want, if it's in their own home or out in public, or any thing at all. It's all a human nature and there is nothing wrong with it. It's not a crime to breast feed, if it's out in public or in your own home. People need to understand that breast feeding is just a pure natural thing, There is nothing wrong with breast feeding no matter where you're at.

best regards & support on breast feeding from: Sheldon

Hi, I really wanted to say how much I enjoyed reading this article. I am doing a report for college and I am so for breastfeeding, I for one breastfed my son until he was 9 months old. I firmly believe in nursing your child and that is the reason why God gave women breasts, despite some of the pig headed views men have. Women keep nursing your child it is absolutely the best thing for your baby.

Autumn Krontz

I really appreciated reading everything. I have three young children. Each has been fed breastmilk exclusively and bottlefed breastmilk on occasion. I still get frustrated with the opinions expressed by so many uninformed people that it is inappropriate to feed my child in from of another person in the U.S. I feel so wierd trying to hide what I'm doing when I am in front of others. I am doing a good thing for my finances and most importantly for the health of my child and myself. Many look at it as disgusting or they just expect unnatural eating habits for my child like going into a bathroom or hiding under a blanket. How can anyone think it would be best for me to buy formula which is very different than breastmilk not to mention expensive with all the items that go along with formula feeding especially when traveling? Not many people seem to know the facts about breastmilk and its benefits, sadly. The way the breastmilk begins watery and sweet and then is fattier and less sweet is surprising information even to some women who breastfeed. Many medical professionals are still uninformed and consequently the mothers equipped to provide adequate nourishment to their own babies. I really would like to see the information everywhere and breastfeeding to be the norm in the U.S.

Crista Davila

I am stunned that there are such ignorant and sensitive people about who will take offense and feel distressed at the sight of other people. What we all need is to become militantly nude! And encourage global warming.

Coll

Absolutely fabulous and helpful article with good links. I have breastfed all my 6 children also in public when needed. Today I would be a lot bolder than I was 12+ years ago. Breast is simply best! Margret Peg

My son is 7 1/2 months old, and we're still breastfeeding. The first time I found it necessary to nurse in public it was in a nearly-empty chinese resteraunt, and it went without a hitch. It did make my husband very uncomfortable, though, and it made me sad to see that he could not seperate the fun, sexual side of my breasts from the function of them. The next time we were out and ds needed to eat, it was at a christmas party for my work, and my husband did ask me to go into another room.

My sister, on the other hand, did not even make it a week. She said it made her uncomfortable, but I believe it was a real lack of education. Even right in the hospital the nurses made her give her daughter 'supplemental' formula. Now my niece has lots of digestive problems including very bad reflux and spitting up so much that she gags on it. I try to tell my sister that she can re-lactate but she doesn't much care. It seems to me that she has bought into the mindset that her daughter is an accessory and that nothing else about her life needs to change.

And that mindset is what really upsets me about my country. There is a ton of information available, there is a huge push for the breast, but at the same time we allow people to believe that having a child will not change our lives, that it is unneccessary to change anything once a child comes along.

Natasha

I have four sons and I breast-fed all four of them. I did use a blanket to cover while I was nursing, but did find it almost always drew more attention to the fact that I was nursing. I noticed mostly women were making comments, sighing and acting disgusted by my breastfeeding. One husband actually said to his wife, "Relax, it's a baby." They even had young children with them. I did think though, what if I was nursing a 9 month old? I have the right to do that in public also. I don't condemn a mother for bottle-feeding, so why should we be made to feel "alienated" because we choose to breast-feed our babies? I always told people, "I figured my body made this milk for a reason and it is the best nutritionally for my babies, so I choose to breast-feed."

Nichole Ireland

This is completely INSANE! Fellow mothers of mine, we need to stand up and make something clear. These are our breasts, our babys, and its our personal choice. I was out at a restaurant one evening breastfeeding my 2 year old when a teenage girl came over to me and asked if I could stop because it was disturbing her. I promptly looked at her and said, "Young lady, this is what being a mother is about, and if you can't handle don't ever have kids."

Rebecca

Its a natural function..How much closer can a mother be with child?Why does everything have to turn to sex or being nude.. We were made without clothes, clothing is mans work,not GODS..We need to be updated like the europeans in regards to nudity,sex etc.WE(USA)are far behind in that category.

Joe

I care on the subject and every male should picture themselves in a position... what if you were a woman (if God chose that) with a two-week child unable to eat solids or drink liquids, but those things your body carried (and naturally placed there as a female mammal) are full and the baby surely is hungry...and the public looks at you like "she's exposing herself"?

I visited many countries for the thrill of travel, but here's my own comment on this issue: Breastfeeding seems to be widely acceptable in EVERY SINGLE NATION IN THE WORLD, except breastfeeding remains a controversial subject in the world's sole superpower: the United States, for some oddball reason. We may not firmly patronize motherhood until in recent decades, but Americans are still learning from the world on one important life source. Americans, like every human being and country, admire their mothers, but to what point?

I visited Canada, Mexico, France, Belgium, the UK, Japan/South Korea in east Asia, Chile/ Argentina in South America... and the variety of opinions on breastfeeding in public from state to state in this country. To my limited knowledge except for my nephew when he was born, breastfeeding esp. in public isn't considered a positive thing, but something shameful for a long time in the USA...except in American Indian tribes done this for antiquity and I'm of Cherokee/French background (my Dad came from France, my Mom is 1/4 American Indian).

In California, it's the urban areas (upper-income professional women, don't forget its' now illegal to ask a woman not to breast-feed in public, and someone told me it's considered "hate speech" on account of her sex/gender according to state law), and multi-ethnic neighborhoods (Cal. does have many Asians, Latinos and Middle-Easterners than most states) that tolerate and strongly practice breast-feeding, but done in secluded spots like benches and behind crowded areas to avoid being bothered in this hyper-sexualized society.

I'm NOT against a woman with her infant who must breast feed for the baby's health sake, and never need to bug her about it. If she feels a need to put a blanket on her front, that's fine... but I can tell you most Americans aren't programmed in a way to act politely and respectfully whenever a woman is breastfeeding her newborn/a month old at a mall, a restaurant, at work, on the bus, with family, or a friend's home (it remains definitely hidden from everyone in most of the US). The land of the free isn't for women and children???

Why you find breast exposure doesn't shock people in Africa, South Asia and Latin America has lots to do with cultural values and religious beliefs, but it may indicate the countries' dietary and health conditions, where baby formula is unavailable or not of good quality. No small wonder for newborn moms and societies in general to advocate and must perform breastfeeding to ensure their young are fed, in places where baby formula isn't around. And I've learned that men in these countries are brought up not to sexualize or shun them, but Americans as much like Europeans and other westerners aren't gender-stratified countries.

I don't judge mothers who choose to use formula, but it's not the best method for the baby to obtain the nutrients he/she needs to grow, unless proscribed by the doctor (the infant may have an allergy to breast milk, although most babies aren't... some health conditions exist for infants unable to digest or handle milk, but I'm not a medical expert on these issues). Just what I know on my nephew now at age 7 when he was a baby... and he struggles with many health ailments from his mother's lack of breastfeeding, not by ignorance... but her physical problems from a troubled pregnancy.

I agree on the attitude of Europeans (esp. the western and northern countries I went to) are comfortable on breastfeeding in public, and the lack of this stigma on women's breasts you find in the US... is surprising for someone to come from a sexually prudent culture (in fact breastfeeding has no sexual connotation to it). Breasts are more artistically expressed in Europe not simply for sexual desire, but to celebrate the wonderful nature of being feminine in non-sexist terms... so had all religions, according to anthropologists studied the significance of breastfeeding in pre-modern cultures, the Greeks or Romans said "mother earth fed the young human race".

Same applies for Canada, Russia, Australia and Japan (all included in the "developed world" category) have national health care groups that actually advocate breastfeeding instead of formulas, unless NECESSARY UNDER A PHYSICIAN'S ADVICE (food allergies, lactose intolerance or weaning after the baby turns a year old). The communists of the USSR and Eastern Europe never frowned on women breastfeeding anywhere they want, then nobody was actually "free" or equal" under a communist dictatorship, a big irony when you'll find the majority of Soviet women were in the workforce and conscripted to the Red Army as well.

I'm glad to know Islamic countries in the Middle East, despite their sexual moral standards are higher than in the western world (Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, etc. under the Sharia or the common sight of women in veils or burkas, and abide by strict socio-moral conduct codes in dealing with the opposite sex), actually encourage moms to breastfeed, even if done in private (esp. the countryside, rural areas and more conservative villages), and culturally valued the same way like in most countries, regardless of the countries' predominant religion or culture (Europe? Canada? Australia? They have more in common..sort of...to the USA).

Japan and east Asian societies remain more tolerant of public breastfeeding, but their economic and social life is changing into more like that of the west... I'm afraid the Japanese, south Koreans, Indians and Chinese: their health systems and moral standards may become "Americanized", like why the upper-classes in urban centers are less likely to breast feed in public or pushed to have formulas as many working moms resorted to this. It's typical to see Filipina women in their homeland and in the US to breast feed in public (they were formerly a part of the US 1898 to independence in 1946, but we never introduced too much of that bad breast fetish stigma?). As well the Vietnamese, Malaysian and Indonesian public health ads to remind their women: "forget the formula, our beautiful mothers can feed thru their bodies".

It seems from not just personal opinion, but my own experiences of visiting Socialist countries or those with progressive governments are more relaxed on the breastfeeding approach. I've seen this attitude in the UK, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Holland, and not surprisingly, in many eastern and southern European lands (Italy, Spain, Greece, Hungary and Serbia) that are actually "liberal" on issues concerning sexuality, partial nudity, and the maternal need to breast-feed wherever or whenever the baby require regular feeding. And of course, communists had a high degree of sexual morality like 1950's North America.

I took notice when I was in Chile and what I heard on Venezuela, most of Latin America had a national health crusade to tear down new media-implanted ones and old taboos based on this "machismo" dominance, and where health issues are seriously dare... the governments went on by saying (on TV, radio ads, newsprint and billboards) "go ahead... breastfeed anywhere and anytime... for the health of our nation... do this for the next generation". In southern Cal. where large Hispanic populations are present, I'm so used to see immigrant and Mexican-American women are confident, as moms in breastfeeding their infants.

Be in mind, Chile has a woman president (Michelle Bachelet) herself a physician, also spoke on her experience as a mother; and Venezuela under president Hugo Chavez, is a strong supporter for health care programs and techniques such as breastfeeding and wants more socialized health care for the country's large poor class. There's no need to explain the high incidence of public breastfeeding in Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean as much in South America, where political leaders (Argentina leader Juan Peron and his wife Evita had advocated it too) agree with any medical professional, church clergy, celebrities, and millions of Latina mothers...there's no shame in it (even on Latin American TV dramas/comedies).

I'm not advocating American culture is bad nor are our political or religious values, but we're (the US and most North Americans) taught to be very strict in particular to breasts and other "sex organs" or "private parts" not displayed EVER in public (or always get covered up when not in public situations). To let a woman breastfeed her newborn isn't a sin, not a crime in most states and to most state legislators don't even constitute as a misdemeanor. If there's an anti-hate crime in Cal. to protect women (as new mothers) from gender harassment based on breastfeeding, it reminds us of women are specific targets in the freest country on earth!

This morbid fear of exposure by American newborn moms living in the "red states" (more conservative oriented), that I never seen in Cal. or the so-called "blue states" (mainly liberal/secular) where newborn moms are actually excused for bearing their breasts in public, because it's so obvious: the babies need to be fed. I rather not get into the political divide here, but why it's common to run into a breastfeeding mother in Los Angeles, New York, Miami or Seattle may not have to do with state law, but tolerant regional customs when one comes across new ideas and cultural differences, sometimes are picked up and adapted.

To observe and learn about other cultures' response to breastfeeding is affectionate, heartwarming and positive... unlike in most of the US, in part due to our country's puritanical origins like 300-400 years ago (most of those beliefs either vanished or lessened, but this problem on breastfeeding in most US states tells me we didn't change much)... and indeed, the majority of evangelical Protestant sects... unlike most of Christianity (Catholicism and Orthodoxy) has once even told newborn moms not blindly follow on their breasts to nourish their newborn young, when the other Protestants and liberal religious sects disagreed.

And yes, the un P-C media displayed women's breasts in ways to provoke feminists and moralists to react together, despite the opposite ends in the US' "culture wars" to oppose the media's overdoing the somehow degrading sexualization of women's breasts in America is negative and can lead to consequences, in terms of infant health. I'm a 26-year old male who may find women's bodies arousing or attractive, but I realize a woman after she gives birth is changed and the reason is... those boobs do come in handy... for babies' sake. That's been picked up by more liberal elites and upper-income classes in America... but when will the poor, working and middle-classes in the US change their minds on public breastfeeding?

No wonder most of the human race in five continents, the developed world and the third world, the Islamic world and the Western world, in the Far East (the orient) and south of the US border, in sub-saharan Africa and in ex-Soviet Europe, they have one thing in common unlike what most North Americans have believed in: there's no real deal on a mother breastfeeding her baby, in public or in private, and they realized for ages... it's a very healthy thing to do. +

I respectfully disagree with the idea that it is better to attempt discreetness while breastfeeding publicly by using a blanket for cover when possible. This only perpetuates the idea that breastfeeding is somehow shameful, thereby further discouraging women who are already uncomfortable from breastfeeding at all. I never felt any shame and therefore took pride in my right to openly breastfeed my children anywhere we were. This doesn't mean I flaunted it, but I always felt that the more common it became to see babies and toddlers nursing, the less anxiety other women would feel while breastfeeding in public, and the less the public would react as though there was something to react to.

sharla

A lot of my friends have breastfed their babies, but mostly short-term. I think we've come a long way in the last 20 years or so as far as promoting breastfeeding in our culture, but we still have a log way to go. I think the lack of good support is one of the reasons that so many women in the U.S. don't attempt breastfeeding, or only continue it for a short time. The other major factor is that breasts and women's bodies in general are so sexualized and objectified in our culture - and even in our so-called advanced country, a lot of people seem to have a lot of trouble separating the sexual aspect of women's breasts from the functional aspect. Even though there are laws in place protecting women's rights to breastfeed in public, it seems like every month or so there is a new story in the headlines about some woman who was harassed for nursing her baby in public. It's sad. We as a people are theoretically supportive of breastfeeding, but in practice, it makes people uncomfortable. As for me, I guess I'm not very mainstream. I have nursed all of my children for at least 18 months (including a set of twins) and not one of them has ever had a drop of formula, and I am very comfortable nursing them wherever we may be - the mall, restaurants, church, the park - I've done it all.

Lisa

I nursed my daughter for 6 months, I never had a problem with anyone.

When my son was born my husband was not comfortable with him being breastfed, I said if he was a girl you wouldn't have a problem.

So, I stopped at 3 weeks for my son. When my daughter was being breastfed he (my husband would kiss her head and say she looks so sweet) But our son, there seems to be competion.

Anyhow I even had a couple of friends that told me the same kinda thing if it were a female baby its okay, but if its a male child ummm not so much in the liking.

Gina

I think all women that are blessed to be a mother should be encouraged to breast feed their child. It is extremely healthy and balanced diet for a nursing child.

Ronald

First of all, love the website. Secondly,I am disgusted at how public breastfeeding is such an issue in America.Has anyone seen the covers of Maxim and FHM? Those covers could be considered "soft" porn by some standards,but, let the right starlet be on the front and you have everyone and their brother talking about their "sexy" and "provocative" photos.Those mags are displayed in public and you don't hear much about that, but, let a woman breastfeed in public and it will literally turn into a national debate! The hypocracy is appaling.It is NATURAL, NATURAL, NATURAL!!! Why would the most nutritious liquid be coming out of our breasts if it were not intended to be given to the baby? Yes, for most people who have never seen a woman breastfeeding, it is an "oddity", but, that is the time to educate that person/s about the wondrous benefits of breastfeeding.I only bf my daughter for 4 mos but, now I am a (little) older, wiser, and will prayerfully be getting pg with my second in the next few months.I will not allow societies warped, perverted views of my breasts discourage me from doing something that we were meant to do in the first place. And please, don't try to ask/insist/threaten or intimidate me to retire to a dingy,foul smelling, germ ridden restroom whose sole purpose if for people to expel toxins from their body and expect me to be okie dokie with that. As I have heard before, "The most dangerous place in the world to be is between a mother and her child."

Crystal

Great website! I applaud your efforts to encourage women to nurse their babies. It is the best thing we can do to encourage their health in those early months. It's a shame that so many women feel pressured to stop breastfeeding earlier than they would otherwise choose do to social pressures. Please visit http://webpages.charter.net/peekaboob/. Maybe if the breastfeeding mother is more comfortable she will also be more confident, therefore doing something natural and healthy for her child and other women will see her nursing in public and be encouraged.

Keep it up! Amie Lerch

My wife and her Momma's group stumbled upon a great product that really freed them from being worried about breastfeeding in public. She wrote up her review of the Hooter Hider on her blog at http://babytoolkit.blogspot.com/2006/08/breastfeeding-with-limited-exposure.html

Jim

A suggestion: Put a beautiful picture of breastfeeding mom in convenient spots of public places, where moms can feed their child, with a caption. "Give the baby some milk". (Let the picture be a showy one so that those who are obsessed to look at exposed breasts may glance at the picture a 100 times!!)

maryn

Thank you for this link, u right, what the fuss is all about? many statues are nude, no one complains about them, am latina, 54, breatfeed 2 sons and my best friend 2 sons, never had any problems.

Barbie

when I was traveling from california to oregon with my 10 day old son he began to cry in the restaraunt. My father asked what was wrong with the baby and a shyly said "I think he is hungry". My dad looked at me and said, "Well, feed him". It was never a question from then on. My husband and brother also observed this interaction and encouraged and supported breastfeeding. Men can provide women in no so favorable situations for breastfeeding with encouragement and support and it does not have to involve a lot of words. The US is mixed up and breastfeeding initiation is increasing but termination of breastfeeding occurs often before the baby is 6 weeks so the mother can return to work. The US is slowly killing themselves.

wendy

Hello, I think breast feeding is wonderful for children. I breast fed both my children, my little boy until he was 16 months and my little girl until she was a year. They both loved it, are very healthy children, and I never had any issues breast feeding anywhere. I just did it and did not worry about what other people thought. It was a wonderful experience and I would definetely do it again. I do not think we should have to hide in a bathroom or anything like that. I mean really, does anyone else eat there breakfast, lunch, or dinner in the bathroom. I don't think so!!! Anyway, more power to the women breast feeding and keep up the good work. Have a wonderful day, Julie

I grew up in Ghana, West Africa and saw women breastfeeding all the time - my teachers in school, women at church, traders at the market, neighbours - and they did so without cover and without shame. Ghana is a very conservative country, low-cut tops are frowned upon, but breastfeeding is okay, its actually encouraged. America needs to get over itself and its double standards. People can dress scandalously with confidence but women can't feed their babies in peace. This whole being 'polite' and 'discreet' is utter rubbish - its not like they walk around the mall with their boobs dripping. Please people, if it bothers you, look the other way! Formula is over-rated, and a waste of resources (packaging, processing, etc). Breastfeed!

African girl

I feel like people need to reaspect nurseing moms... Everyone has been a baby and didnt u need to eat?? Its not about sex anymore when it comes to nursing a baby! People need to stop being freaks and respect nature!

kim

Whipping out the boob in public.... at first I was very aware of my exposed breasts and even would cover up when in a nursing support group surrounded by other nursing Moms. Silly huh? As time went on I became more confident as a Mother, my son's nursing skills improved, and before I knew it I was nursing anywhere I needed to and would carry a small cloth for my modesty when the baby was latching on and off and for those moments when the curious little guy would rubber neck every 60 seconds to see what was going on. I believe in Mothers nursing their children wherever, whenever, but I also believe we need to respect others and be discreet. If you flash a little nipple don't sweat it...but don't shove it in people's faces either just to make a statement. That is NOT what feeding our children is all about.

K.P.

wow, this has been really informative. My wife is 35 and has 34a breasts, she is now pregnant and thanks to the site, I know a lot more about breats!!

kbernard

i think that breast feeding in publick is normal and is supose to be natural

jone

Hey that cartoon thingy was so imature. I mean how people react to a women breast feeding in public. womens breast are normal and thats how you NORMALLY feed babies. I think that MAYBE, women SHOULD go to in a private place and nurse because your a women and sould have womenly manners. but hey, that just my thought

Tux Johnson

I think breast feeding your child in public is should be a natural thing. I did it with all three of my children. I did not feel the need to cover my breast and my child while feeding. Sometimes I got looks,sometimes I didn't. I feel society has made breasts sexual. Woman were givin breasts for a reason, to feed our children.

lori

What could be more natural. Not original but true

Gary Nicholson

I am a man whose wife breastfed 2 children, and our daughter has breastfed 2 children. personally I see no sexual connection to a lady feeding her child I just see extreme beauty, nature at its best. We the human race for some reason think everything has to be sexual. We let children watch their pet cat, dog or hamster nurse their young, or the horse, cow or other farm animals nurse their young, but feel we have to cover mummy up as it is a dirty act. WHY? It is just as natural. I think more young mothers should breastfeed as it makes the mother and child bond stronger. So ladies keep up the fight and you have my full support.

ejay

I think that it's interesting just how many men have opinions about breastfeeding and its taboo in our society. Its great that a percentage of them are supportive and responsive to what can be a major stress for some women. I personally try to cover up if in a very public setting- or sit in the car and let my husband run errands - but that is a personal choice. I think that it is considerate. I do think that breastfeeding rooms would be great, but lets face it, until family rest rooms catch on FIRST, there is little hope of that. Ever try to keep 2 toddlers in line while you feed your baby at the food court tables? Or what about using the toilet or changing a diaper? HA! Apparently no architect has. Only once have i found that secret oasis in a chairless desert.

mo

I love it and I let my girls breastfeed their baby dolls I even help them latch them on right and show them the diffrent postitions ect..I love nursing my kids and I will nurse my children tell what ever age I feel appropriate. If you don't like seeing a 2 year old or older nursing well don't look my way. I got breasts for one reason and thats to feed my babies and young children. See how many people graduate high school still on the breast. Let children be children and don't force your kids to grow up too fast. Love this site and hope to see my breasts around here. Heather

I AGREE THAT BREASTFEEDING IS THE WAY TO GO. I HAVE TWO CHILDREN AND I HAVE (AND STILL AM) BREASTFED THEM BOTH. I JUST WANT TO GIVE THEM THE BEST I CAN. I FELT THAT I HAVE CHOSEN THE RIGHT DECISION BETWEEN BREAST OR BOTTLE FEEDING.

WE LIVE IN A TIME OF CONVEINENCE, I THINK A LOT OF THE REASON THAT MOTHERS OPT FOR THE BOTTLE THESE DAYS IS BECAUSE ITS EASIER. WE HAVE BECOME LAZY. MOTHERS THINK ITS EASIER TO BOTTLE FEED. BUT I DISAGREE. BREAST MILK IS VERY CONVEINENT ALWAYS READY, WARM, AND NUTRITIOUS. SO WHAT COULD BE WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE, WELL LEAVING YOUR BABY WHILE OUT TO A SHOW, WORKING, ETC.

I WENT BACK TO WORK FOUR DAYS AFTER I DELIVERED MY DAUGHTER IN AUGUST OF 2005. I PUMPED AND EVEN NURSED HER ON BREAKS. MY PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT WAS VERY ACCEPTING AND I FOUND A SLEW OF NURSING MOTHERS RIGHT WHERE I WORKED.

UNFORTUNATELY I DO NOT SEE VERY MANY MOTHERS OUT THERE NURSING THEIR CHILDREN. THE US IS A VERY SEXUALIZED COUNTRY. WE HAVE MADE BREASTS TO BE OBJECTS FOR SEXUAL SATISFACTION. MANY OF THE WOMEN OF MY GENERATION ARE VAIN AND ARE APPREHENSIVE ABOUT WHAT NURSING CAN DO TO THEIR BODIES.

I SAY NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS ITS WORTH IT IF YOU'VE ALREADY WENT THROUGH THE ROUND BELLY PHASE BREAST FEEDING CAN'T BE ANY WORSE THAN A 48" WAIST! SO WHATS THE PROBLEM WITH NURSING IN PUBLIC? BREASTS, IN MY BELIEF, WERE DESIGNED TO OF COURSE BE SENSUAL BUT THEY ARE FUNCTIONAL AS WELL. THEY SERVE A PURPOSE. NOBODY LOSES THEIR APPETITE TO A MOTHER CAT NUSRING HER KITTENS? WELL DO YOU? WELL WE ARE MAMMALS AND WE HAVE MAMMARY GLANDS THAT SECREET MILK. PUT IT TO GOOD USE AND FORGET WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK.

I AM 24 YRS OLD CONSIDER MYSELF ATTRACTIVE I KNOW THAT MY BREASTS ARE SEXUAL BUT I ALSO KNOW THEY OFFER THE MOST NUTRITIONAL VALUE FOR MY CHILD. IF YOU THINK ABOUT IT FORMULA IS DESIGNED WITH BREAST MILK IN MIND. ALWAYS IMPROVING TO BE MORE LIKE BREAST MILK.I UNDERSTAND THERE ARE MOTHERS OUT THERE THAT CAN'T NURSE OR HAVE CHILDREN. BUT MY CHILDS NEEDS TAKE PRESIDENCE OVER YOUR SENSITIVITY, SORRY BUT ITS TRUE.

AS FAR AS MY EXPERIENCES NURSING IN PUBLIC I DON'T CARE IF PEOPLE THINK ITS GROSS WHEN MY CHILD MAKES A FUNNY SUCKING SOUND WHEN SHE LATCHES ON, OR WHEN ABOUT TO NURSE AND HER FACE IS PRESSING INTO MY BREAST WITH HER MOUTH WIDE OPEN. SHE WOULD ACT THE SAME WAY IF SHE WAS BOTTLE FED. THE ONLY PROBLEM IS THAT WERE SO WEIRD ABOUT BREASTS AND THEIR IMAGE NOBODY KNOWS HOW TO ACT AROUND THEM. ARE THE FOR LOOKS OR FOR USING? YOU DECIDE.

AMBUR

I nursed my 3 1/2 yr. old son, while pregnant with twins... in public at a public swimming pool. We sat under the trees, but I just lowered one strap of my one piece swimsuit. And nursing in the sling went well. Then, when my twins could sit up easily, I nursed one in a sling in the grocery store, while one sat in the seat. I never worried about people starring. I don;t think they could see; but they knew a larger child was on my; hip in a sling with her head over my breast. For me, these were the best days of my life! How beautiful to have my nurslings together.

Karen Egger

It is natural. I find that people who have problems with what other people do are generally guilty of having issues themselves, and they project their own issues onto other people. What we do isn't sick, how they relate it to their own issues is the problem.

Sabrina

every women should have the right to breast feed there baby where ever they want, that what breast are for, for all you lady who do breast feed in public keep it up

Nancy

Hello, I was surfing through the internet to find out more about nipples, meaning, articial nipples used for bottles, and came across your sight. I am amazed at how there are alot of information about breastfeeding, nipples, facts and fiction regarding breasts. I am a new mother of one, and I have been breastfeeding since he was born, now at 9 months he can't get enough of the boob. He enjoys it alot, and at this time I can actually say I am enjoying the bonding experience with him. It was hard in the beginning, a lot of sleepless nights because I had to get use to waking up and feeding; however, this time around it is definately beneficial especially at night. He wakes up, and as soon as I put him on the breast he falls right back to bed. It took alot to get use to, but it definately paid off. Unfortunately, I am deciding to stop in 3 or 4 months because I need to find a full time job because I am going back to college in the fall. Advice to any new mothers wanting to breast feed? You should definately try it out, it gets easier once you get the hang of it. Don't give up.

Mary

My Obsession Is Not With The Size Of The Breasts, It's With Who Is Behind The Breasts That Counts With Me.

I have 6 children...and my daughters breast feed. I fell that ALL women should breast feed in public. I feel that both breasts do not need to be exposed..but the one breast feeding can be completely exposed..it is natural! If a man is a prude..too bad! God made women's breast to feed! Breast feeding in public is always good..and tells men that breasts are God's Miracle of changeing blood into milk - It is wonderful! ( . ) . ) Thanks be to God!

Pio Zammit

religion Islam order a women to feed a child for 3 years i think ir is ideal
ri

Excellent information. I have always been embarassed and felt guilty even when accidentally seeing a woman breastfeed her baby. First and foremost, God gave women breasts to feed their young.

My son and daughter-in-law went with my wife and me to have a meal. We were all at the table eating and I did not even notice that my daughter-in-law was breastfeeding my grand-daughter until after she had begun. I was embarassed but said nothing. This was done so discretely that I don't think anyone in the resturant noticed...and people were sitting all around us. I have always believed breastfeeding was better than bottle feeding because of the closeness of the mother and child, the touching and in general the needed bonding.

The first time she breastfed her daughter embarassed me greatly. Now I just feel thankful that she cares enough for my grand-daughter that she is giving her that closeness and not pushing her away with a untouching bottle. I'm not embarassed now.

To me, breast have always represented warmth, compassion, love, tenderness and other qualities that influence wholesomeness. Sadly they have also been objects of sexual nature.

Thank you for this article.

John

More Breastfeeding rooms please, Many do not want to force someone to watch my bare breasts, neither do they want to get touched improperly. It is rapelike, a sexual assault. It is a major hurt in some women with adulterous husbands when they find no support, and women showing breasts or sexy clothing. We live in Europe - There are rights, Many Americans seem to think it is right to provocatively offend others, Please - breastfeeding is about care not obscene offence - While having the demonstrants provocative attitude You show to the world that breastfeeding is not loving but a means to be dirty, hurtful to both women and men. If someone wants to show and others want to watch there should be enclosed rooms for that - if someone is just interested in lovingly nurse their baby without offending there should be rooms for that too, a so called no mans land. Respect - is the keyword, not Rights. Fighting for rights means war Respecting each other conquers the misunderstandings, a no mans breastfeedingroom in every 4th block in town is showing respect to the ones that truly care.

Nice Try

I agree with all the sections I have read on this page. Americans though I am one have turned it into a big deal. Coincidently I was talking about this not to long ago and they looked me weird. As I read all of this there was some stuff that amazed me also. How come someone be jealous of their own son but I guess it happens. With all the benefits that it brings people should know about it. Then with alot of people complaining about money and wanting to have alot of kids that would help them out too. I will support any female that wants to attemp or for sure wants to breast feed. I think along with what was said about bottle feeding is that it also makes a baby fat due to it being an imitation substance.

Kenneth Sweet

You ROCK!!! I've long felt (since I was a teenager) that since the true purpose of female breasts is to feed babies, no big deal. Thanks for your site promoting a relaxed attitude. I've since come around to playing along with the fetish, mainly for kicks--but with the knowledge that that's what it is: a (sometimes pleasurable) construct. When it gets to the point of an entire societal obsession, leading to compromising women's self-esteem or setting up yet another gender-driven power dynamic, THEN it goes way too far. Folks need to be reminded that our bodies are what they are, NOT an indictment (or validation) of our individual self-worth. Can I get an "AMEN"?!?!

Thanks also for the very well-written "Personal Breast" stories. I'm only sorry that the issue engenders so much struggle. But as a small-breasted woman, I'm always comforted to be privy to the discussion among other small-breasted women. Listen, sisters, the joys are many (running braless without pain) and sorrows few. I wish for every woman, of every size bosom, peace and contentment with her body.

Meanwhile, kudos to the photographer! *sharp* b&w's there.

OK now I'm back to see what else I can find on this site. Thanks for an evening of intelligent discourse happpily found amid a desert of stupid porn.
Peace,
Fawn

P.S. Yay more power to all those finding useful & enlightening information on this site! Younger generation yes help us turn the tide toward understanding and sanity! For the record--mother's natural breast milk beefs up baby's immune system in a powerful way. I was a bottle baby myself and I now deal with an auto-immune condition (multiple sclerosis)...can't help but wonder if I too might have been healthier with breastfeeding. (Don't pity me--I am doing well, thanks to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Spread the word.)
Fawn

When a mother is breast feeding in public and someone get's offended by it and complains, I think they are the ones who are f*d up because if they see anything other than a mother caring for their children and instead seeing breasts as just a sexual thing, they are the ones who should get punished!! Most Americans now are too thin skinned and get offended by the most petty c*p today. If these simple minded people are affraid that if their children get corrupted by viewing breastfeeding, then they should get off their lazy asses and do their job as a parent and explain to them how natural and pure breastfeeding is instead of making them awkward about the human body later on in life and finding on their own from something like pornography or sex to satisfy their curiosity. Do America a favor get a life, stop complaining about natural beauty, use all that extra time you have for volunteer work instead of complaining...you know who you are!

John

YeSSSSSSSSS, i do agree with all. I am on my second time breastfeeding my newborn, and currently i was asked to leave the store because i was breastfeeding, i've refused and was told that they would call the cops,which ive said to go ahead but,my son had stopped nursing before that..when i go back to that store again(-why should i, afterall?!!) i will definetelly nurse my child if he needs it..
I got in touch with La leche league to know more my rights and i came to search at the internet for more infos...
we women should breastdfeed at anywhere at anytime!

Tawha barboza

I am a strong supporter of breastfeeding and plan to do it with my children (I am pregnant with my first), but I do have some concerns with your "proud" promotion of public breastfeeding. You have stated many times that nursing is a very intimate experience between mother and child that really aids in bonding. I would completely agree with that and because nursing creates such an experience it is something that should be done privately. Out of respect for myself and my child I do not want others being involved in that moment. It is also a beautiful and natural process to be intimate with my husband and it is the way children are created but I would not perform that natural function in public, even if I do think society has twisted the natural function of sex into something erotic and perverted (just as you think the breast has been made sexual). Intimate experiences should be kept that, intimate. There are many natural functions that we do not perform in public arenas because they are for private environments that respect the dignity of everyone involved, including strangers.

Michelle

I can understand how you feel about this issue right now. However, your feelings may change in the future when you actually have the child. See, it can be intimate, yes, and in the beginning especially it's better that child and mother can learn it without too many strangers eyes on them.
But breastfeeding also can become, after a while, kind of a routine feeding thing. You do it so often, that some of those feedings can be more cuddly, some of them might be less so and more of a routine thing. So if this happens to you, then when you go out and are shopping or whatever, and child needs some milk, it's just pretty natural just feed the child - because he doesn't care (most babies don't anyway) and by that time you might not care that much either about the fact that there are other people around.
I hope you understand. You certainly have the right to your opinion and I don't know, maybe you'll continue feeling the way you do, but once the reality is here, your feelings concerning this issue may change too.

Hello. I am a 21 year old guy, and I have a story to share. I was in the local mall, eating in the upper level, admiring my new Hollister jeans, when I noticed a woman breastfeeding on the lower level while also reading a book and eating some food herself. At first I was taken back, bare breasts in a public place, it isn't a common site. But after the initial few seconds I went back to my food. (I was impressed, however, at her ability to multitask). I've seen women feed their babies before, to me it's just that, feeding. I finished eating, collected my bags, and glanced back down and noticed a security guard talking to her. Curiosity got the best of me and I made a point to wonder by and eavesdrop on the conversation. The guard was pleading with her to do a better job of covering herself up, the woman was saying that nothing could be seen unless someone was trying to look (which was true, the baby's head blocked most of the view except to those with a view from above). The guard told her straight out to go to the bathroom to feed her baby, or she would have to leave the mall. I stepped in at this point and asked the guard what the problem was. I saw the woman roll her eyes, probably thinking I was going to join in on the guards side. The guard told me (like I was an idiot) that 'this woman' refused to cover her chest. I asked him "so?" And he told me that it "wasn't proper." I asked him what wasn't proper about it. He was growing frustrated and seemingly embarrassed and told me that she can't go having her breasts out in public "like THAT!" I told him that I knew for a fact there wasn't a law against it. He said that that didn't matter. The woman at this point spoke and said something to the effect of "then force me out of the building and see if I don't sue your employer." I stopped whatever comeback he had by saying "I'm sure you wouldn't get fired if you started throwing law-abiding citizens out of a public place and getting your company sued for your actions." He chose to stalk away mumbling. I gave the woman a smile, who had sat back down, she thanked me and I brushed the still suckling baby's little hair with my hand, told her it was no problem and left, feeling as though I had done my good deed for the day.

Kelso

I enjoyed this website and am proud to say that I am a nursing mother who has overcome a lot of shameful feelings and taboos connected to public breastfeeding. When my daughter was 2 months old, I nursed her in my arms while walking around Wal-Mart. I had to get over the way people stared at me because I knew I was providing my daughter with the best nourishment possible. She is now 6 months old, and I nurse in public less often, but I won't be ashamed if the need arises while we're out on the town. She has to eat, right?

Angie

I would just like to say that I commend all mothers who are not ashamed to breastfeed in public. To this day, having been in this city for three years, I have NEVER seen a woman breastfeeding their infant. That really saddens me. I informed my husband of four years that when we have our baby, I will make it my mission to make sure to breastfeed in public every opportunity I get. I'd also love to find some public breastfeeding stickers/bumper stickers/magnents, etc. for this cause. All I know is that God made us to feed our babies this way, so we need to re-educate the world that this is more than acceptable!!

amber

I have been nursing for about 7 years with my three children. My first baby, had convulsions under the blanket at church one day, cause he was overheated. That was when they did not have air conditioning. I have always tried to stay modest. But, when his eyes rolled in the back of his head like that... He was shaking uncontrollably in my arms. He was only a few months old at the time. I was so scared after that. He hasn't had an episode since. I try not to cover my babies so much. How would you like to put a blanket over your head and eat? I'd say after a few months a baby is trying to find their way out of the blanket cover. Flailing their arms around and pulling the blanket out of their face. Isn't that natural when you cant breath or if you want to see whats going on around you? Its not so bad to cover up a little, but, what if I forget the blanket? What if its 90 degrees and the baby and I are overheating already? Should my baby starve ta death for your pride? Should my breasts be swollen and in pain for your embarrassment? Should I get mastitis (infection in the breast from a blocked duct) and risk health problems because your afraid of a little boobie? I have had to feed my babies in the car at Christmas time during the shopping season (winter season). I still would get looks by adults when I was in my own car (even cover up).

I don't think people are aware of how many times a baby eats in a day and night. It is not 3 times a day like an average adult. A baby has a much smaller stomach and therefore eats like 8-12 times in a 24 hour period. A feeding session takes about 15-30 minutes at a time. If a woman is to going nurse, even for just 1 year or less, it takes support of others. Imagine having to find a place to feed your baby everytime you were to step outside your home?(every few hours) For the next year.....If you refuse your child his/her feedings, you lose your supply...and they screech and cry uncontrollably until they are fed.(They are experiencing hunger pains)

I don't want to scare any future mothers, I am stating facts so if any men that are out there that don't realize their effect on this, will actually know some truths about nursing. Understanding is key to being more compassionate! It is not a sexual thing. Women have a hormone in there blood that turns off the sex drive. Sex to me, is if my husband helps me around the house or lightens my heavy burdens. Now THAT is a turn-on. See me turn into Catwoman....PRRRRRR! The lesser I have to do, the lesser I feel overwhelmed, The more I can relax, The sexier I will feel. Its also the all day interactions. How he makes me feel... I digress. I rather not have him anywhere near my breasts during nursing season. Mind you that they are used alot. They are just a little exhausted. Okay? Now, does that sound sexy? Sometimes sex is just a function too. (Especially with this hormone during the nursing season.)

Now, I will mention the bathrooms. I have fed my babies in countless bathrooms. Do you remember how long I said it takes to feed a baby during a "session"? Exactly. Can you imagine sitting in a public bathroom(only if they have a chair)for that long, while everyone is doing their "business"? The poor baby too. I would lose my appetite. The last public bathroom I went to was a mall. I counted at least 40 different people had come in to use the bathroom. The comments, the germs, the odor, the stinch, the sounds... (gag me with a spoon, okay?) Let's just say, very unpleasant situation. Is that what you would have for a nursing infant? The babe that was pulled out of a womb into a "sterile enviroment" to be constantly sent or hidden into a nasty bathroom to eat? Listen up people, get over the boobie craze, okay? These are infants and young babies in the first one or two years of their lives! Hello?! That was what I was subjected to for the sake of modesty and the general public during my nursing career. You just cant lock up a nursing mom either, okay? I rather not leave the home, I know. But, a year or two (or 7 years) is a long time to stay cooped up and in hiding! Some women have other children to take care of too, and their needs outside the home. Not to mention, grocery shopping and errands. No, I'd say that women who nurse are gonna have to be accepted. Maybe, if we tell the truth about what REALLY goes on in the bathroom and in those hiding places, more people would be more understanding. My mother gives me a hard time too. She came from the "formula is best" era. She bugs me to wean all the time. She isn't paying my bills, so I don't listen. This is my life, my bills, my babies, my choice. There has not been a lot of support, I am just determined to do natural. My breastmilk will not be recalled. Support the nursing moms! Support healthier babies! Boobies don't bite.

smom

When I breastfed my youngest son, his 3 year old brother also "breastfed" his "baby", Mickey Mouse. It was a natural and normal part of our family for Mom to breastfeed. I don't understand why anyone wouldn't choose to not feed their child the natural way.

ceejay

my wife breastfed our 6 children about 12 years total. in my memory it was a central part of our young family life. she now has smaller breasts which allow her to be physically active. i have no fear of her developing breast cancer because of that hiatus from estrogen. when i see a woman breastfeeding in public it brings back many good feelings and i can't help but smile. young ladies, please feel comfortable with your bodies and your breasts and let them deliver the milk of human kindness to us all.

floyd

I think that in America a lot of the negative comments that come from (especially more age mature) people stems from women that come from an era (eg WWII) when nursing was not considered and shots were given to "dry you up" even before a new mom knew what was happening. I honestly believe that have regrets and even feelings of inferiority about not having nursed their children , so they are openly negative and at times even harshly so - so as to attack or lash out at those who are or will potentially breastfeed. It is an attempt to make them feel better about themselves........Just my two cents!

Jen P.

If I'm about to nurse the baby in public (due to infant urgency and lack of alternatives), I would be as discreet as possible for the sake of respecting those who are shyer. It doesn't mean I'm trying to "hide" the fact: just that some people are uncomfortable with the exposed act. Yes, it's prudish, but out of concern for others' sensitivities since they haven't come that far yet, I'm not one to brandish the idea. Why push? It seems to me a more kind-hearted approach would be more effective:
"Excuse me, Sir/Ma'am, I'm about to feed my baby and I wonder if you'd mind. If it bothers you I can cover up a bit." .. What's so wrong with being polite? If nursing is so beautiful (which indeed it is), I'd say let's not ruin that image by being icy to those who need a bit more time to get used to it.

BL

I was at a bakers square restaurant recently, and there was a woman breast feeding here baby, at the table. she was in full view of everyone in the restaurant! No one complained or cause the lady any problems more power to her!

Nate

I am concerned about our counrty..our nutrition is SAD...I use that word because we refer to it as the "Standard American Diet". I breastfed both of my daughters. My first until age 2 1/2. I became pregnant with my 2nd daughter then and was told to quit because my uterus contracted each time my first daughter would nurse...so. I stopped (sadly, because we both cherished that time together..she would have happily gone on for much longer). My 2nd daughter breastfed only for over a year, then she stopped using my left breast...so, I weaned her.
Both of my girls were always healthy..never sick...pleasant personalities....I believe much of that was becasue of the breastfeeding.
I now have a granddaughter from my 2nd daughter. She has carried on the family tradition of breastfeeding. None of her friends have done it, so, if it weren't for my influence, she wouldn't have either. SHE LOVES IT...she is so happy that she choose to breastfeed. Her baby is the most beautiful, peaceful, happy child..such a blessing. I am sorry to see all of the other mothers missing out on this bonding..nothing is better! We need to make a change in our country... Thanks for what you are doing!

Cyndee Pack

One day I was at a support group meeting. A mother began nursing her baby. Some people objected, and she never came back to the meeting. I wish I knew then that it is a law that she has every right to nurse her baby in public. I see nothing wrong with it. In fact I think it is a noble thing to do.

I don't know why people would be offended by a mother breast nursing her baby. Why are people not offended by those who wear low cut dresses and you can see half their breast? That is what offends me.

Guess what, someone said, the reason they wear low cut dresses, this is the reason they gave: Men have an infantile passion for female breast. Guess they never out grew their need.

g

In Scotland (but not the rest of the UK), it is now illegal for any public place (shop, bank, restaurant, municipal building, etc.) to try to prevent breastfeeding.

Irma

my breasts are very large and this site helped me with my breastfeeding problems!
thank you

Emma

personally i feel that b/f in public shouldnt be such a big deal to the public because of the point that mothers dont doit with a bad intention. and THATS WHAT BREAST ARE FOR!!!!!!!!!

marina martinez

I never see any women breast feeding; I was bottle fed which I feel made me obsessed with breasts but, being a christian man has refrained me to looking at the subject like that. Women have the choice either way.
Clinton, Wa

I've had plenty of women breastfeed in front of me,including my wife.I think its cool.People get all stupid when they see a women breastfeeding her baby.Like there's something wrong with it why dont they just grow up?

David Monyelle

My mother gave my daugter her first baby doll for her first birthday. It came with a bottle. Someone said, "oh Ellie, let's feed the baby". So she did, by tossing the bottle behind her, lifting up her shirt and nursing her baby doll. Everyone thought it was the cutiest thing ever.
Even now with her new brother, she says, "I feed", and lifts her shirt up. Totally adorable. And I love that nursing a baby to her, is just the natural thing to do.

Nicole Oberg

WOW! I NEVER Looked At Breastfeeding This Way. I Thought That It Was For People To Cheap To Buy Formula!I Had NO Clue That They Did It Because It Was Healthier For The Baby. I Came To This Website To Find Info For My 9th Grade Speech Class. I'm Writing A Speech Persuading People To Find Public Breaastfeeding Acceptable. This Info Is So Incredibly Helpful! I Give Your Site A HUGE Thumbs-Up!!!! BIG HELP HERE!!!!!!!!!!!! Love, Jamie

Jamie Hemminger

As a man, I am never offended by the sight of a breast. Yes, I enjoy them, but am not obsessed with size. The sight of a woman breast-feeding her baby is beautiful. No man or other woman should ever be offended.

Jim Johnson

I think it is truly wonderful and not sinful when a women breasts feed in public. When a baby need nourishment what is the mother supposed to do? go and hide some place? the people of the world today have one thing on their mind and that is dirty sex and treat women like nothing but play things, when done using her, they get rid of her and find another one to take advantage of. The womens body is very precious to me and I truly respect it.

Steve

I am currently pregnant and trying to decide whether to breastfeed or bottlefeed. Your site has helped me a lot, I really think that I am going to try breastfeeding after all. At first I was pretty much turned against it. There was a lot that I was unaware of. Thanks for all the information!

Kris

Breast feeding is the best gift you can give your child. It is the most natural and most beautiful sight in the world. Do it anywhere. Bravo.

Gerald Wallingford

Breastfeeding is as much a part of life as breathing. That is why GOD put breast on women, to nurse their babies. Mankind has made them something sexual. I feel a woman who breastfeeds her child shows she wants the absolute best for her baby. Not to mention the bond it creats between them. Why would a woman go into a restroom to breastfeed her child. Is there anyone who would want to go into the restroom to have their meal. God bless all who breastfeed.

David

Wow, I don't really know what to say. I'm shocked breastfeeding in public is such a big deal in the US. I grew up there but live in Sweden now. Basically everyone who can breastfeed does. I am a little nervous about our visit to the US soon. Our son will be 8 months and I will be breastfeeding. OK, not everyone here appreciates moms breastfeeding in public, but I don't think they'd have the nerve to say anything. You would definitely not be asked to leave a restaurant for breastfeeding. That's absurd! Restaurants are for eating anyway, right?

Anna

Thank you so much for the section on weaning. My daughter is 5 1/2 months old and I already have people asking me when I am goig to wean her (including my own mom). I just politely say "Why stop now, we are just getting started!" or just smile and say "In a year or two." I absolutely love nursing my daughter and I am certainly not going to stop anytime soon because people get offended. Thank you for this website.

Angie

Oh my THANK YOU for this site. When, I had my daughters I was uninformed about laws for nursing mothers and I didn't nurse very long because I let other people dictate how I raised my children. That's the biggest regret of my life. When my son joined our family, I knew that it was okay and I nursed him for 14 mos. This time around I knew that when people looked at me "that way" they just weren't informed. I was a "discreet nurser" only for my own comfort and no one else's. I did have an incident with an older gentleman (I use this term loosly) in a Denny's. He kept looking at me and grunting and told his waitress that he was disgusted and could she ask me to stop. Well, she must've been a breastfeeder herself because she told him "No, I will not ask her to stop. You're eating in public so why shouldn't her baby eat in public? Especially since she has the baby covered up!" The manager asked the man if he wanted to be moved and he just turned away. I can tell you this, she got a HUGE TIP from us. Great great site!

Kristin

"Also, many men are simply curious about female breasts and breast-feeding since the society has made it a taboo."
This is so true!

I LOVE breast feeding my children> I have four, my youngest is 10 months old. My oldest is 10 years. I stubbled on this web-site because of a incedent at a restruant. Of all places, Myself and family were told to stop nursing or leave period. And this wonderful place was.................. HOOTERS.

HOOTERS!!!!!! I have spoken to uppers and they said I choose to be mad and there is nothing they can or will do about it. We also have the law in this state.

I am furious, because the men involved act like I did something wrong.

Mary

I think we should petition companies like Matel to make a breast-feeding Barbie. The FCC should also be petitioned to allow any nonsexual nudity on any boaodcasts. This nation needs to get over its neurosis with nakedness.

Larry

It is polite to be discreet while nursing in public. It's not a question of legality, it's one of manners.

Laura

Long before the bottle was invented, woman where breastfeeding their children. Why make laws and go against nature.

bronzemouse

I am a grandpa. When my step daughter started to feed her first child I was asked to leave the room. I married this lovely girl's mother when the girl was about 14. I asked if she had ever seen me without a shirt, "no" she responded. So I stripped to the waist and said then we shall suffer our embarassment together. (I have gynecomastia and had, until then, always kept it hidden). This lovely young woman is now nursing her second child. Oddly, I am now more comfortable with myself now that my long held secret is out.

DD

I nursed my 1st son (now 6) until he was 3 yrs old, in public, private, bathrooms, and resteraunts. My 2nd son is now 2 months..A few weeks ago we were at Walmart (wearing the baby in a sling) and we passed a woman with her baby in one of those car carriers. Her baby began to cry and there was no reaction. My son said to me "I think that baby is hungry." He was very concerned. The woman took out a bottle, shook it up and propped it up so the baby could drink while still in the carrier. My son looked up at me with big eyes and said "Mom, why isn't she nursing him? Why is she making him drink like that? Is she going to pick him up? Don't her breasts work?" As we walked away, I told him that sometimes women choose not to nurse, and other times it can be hard for people. He said "Not me, I'M gonna nurse." And THAT is what it's all about ladies! I applaud this site and the women who have participated, thank you for encouraging women who may not be getting it from anyone else.

Jessi

Hi there
Just came along this site. I love it. I have a question though that i couldn't really find an awnser for. I am a young mom, 16 to be exact(and loving it), and nursing. Before i got pregnant I probably could have been a runway model i was so thin and lanky, boy did that change, now i know why women always talk about their hips! Anyways, my son favours my right breast over the left, and now my right is way bigger than the left. I'm kind of scared (will they ever go back to normal?) i know that one breast will always be bigger than the other, but this much??? Not to mention that i am still a child and growing. I just would like to know if my breasts will ever even out? Thanx for your time! p.s. i love the stuff about breastfeeding in public, as a young mom and choosing to nurse (not very common by the way) i know the struggle sometimes.
Chelsea

The size difference in your breasts will probably be there after weaning, but it will be less noticeable.

If you possibly can, try encourage your son to nurse more from the smaller one, so it would then start producing more milk and grow in size. Remember milk is made to meet the demand; the more you nurse from a breast, the more milk that breast starts making. For example, try always start on the smaller side so it will get stimulated. I know this can be hard, I myself have uneven breasts because of nursing. And I can't give any guarantees either, but I feel it's worth trying to make him take the smaller breast more.

I think that breastfeeding is a wonderful thing in all sorts of ways and do support it....But there is a thing called modesty that is imortant to a lot of women. There is nothing wrong with discreet breastfeeding. Different strokes for different folks. Women should not be encouraged to "bare their breasts in public" to make a statement any more than discreet nursing should be encouraged. Just the fact that they are nursing mothers is quite a commitment to their babys..The way in which they do it is totally personal end of report.

I too, feel that breast feeding in public is completely ok. I do wish there was more acceptance and support of it. After all, we are always hearing from doctors and pediatritians about how healthy it is for babies. I nursed my son son for 14 months and it was the sweetest most enjoyable time in my life so far. I did breast feed him "discreetly" a few times. This became such a hassle because at times he and I would both get hot from using a blanket to cover us. As he got older he would start to pull the blanket off. It seems ridiculous that some people expect you to feed your baby in a bathroom. How would they like to eat in one?! I often felt like I had to go out of my way to find a hiding place, especialy in church to nurse my baby. I won't be so compliant with some of society's "hang up's" with my next baby. After all, I have a right to feed my baby where ever I want just as much as bottle feeding parents do.

Jackie

I breastfed both of my children for more than a year each. I do beleive in breastfeeding in public, it was a necessity. I don't beleive you should make a show of it though. Enough exposure for the baby to latch is ample. If you are in a restraunt there is no need to sit by the door and have everything hanging out. I beleive you'll do more for acceptance by being considerate. The blanket is a dead giveaway, I preferred to wear two shirts one of them a button up the other a tank. This way I could be comfortable and could nurse without undressing.

Dee

Thank you so much for this website! I had an incident happen three weeks ago while in church and I can't seem to get myself to return, because another lady couldn't handle me nursing my son. My son has GERD and it has been very difficult to nurse him all covered up, as he'll kick off the blanket and begin latching on and off to catch his breathe. I needed to be told that the law is on my side and this is the other person's problem!

Lisa

this whole site is just wonderful with everything!

i swear it wasnt til readin here that i felt much better about my breasts. thank u all so much!

my fiance and i are in complete support of breast feeding in public! there is nothing wrong with feeding ur child!

ashley

Thank you so much for this website. While I have always supported public breastfeeding I am so glad to know that the state I live in & most states I travel in have laws that specifically state public breastfeeding is OK. I look forward to enforcing that statute!

I am petite & large breasted, 34DD!!(bra makers don't seem to realize we are out here!) and I am pregnant by about two weeks. One of my first cues that I was pregnant was heavy tender breasts & on the day I was due for my period - spilling out of my bra that normally fits! A big indicator to me that my breasts are for babies!

K.

this really helped me because i breastfeed my son and i have been asked to leave a common area while i was feeding and it made me feel that it wasnt ok to breastfeed my son in public.. thank you so much

Jacquelyn

it's their right to feed their baby when hungry at any place. one should learn to respect mothers. it is not a sexual act but only a breastfeeding in public

makeen

As a very strong supporter of breastfeeding.(including extended breastfeeding). I honestly do NOT see anything wrong with a mother breastfeeding her infant, toddler, preschooler, or older child!. As long as the mother and child are comfortable with extended breastfeeding I would definitely say... GO FOR IT!!. Besides, all you nursing mothers.... For however long you wish to breastfeed your child is strictly your business only. No one else's business!!

Steve McPhail

Hi I am 12 and I have fairly large breasts. I was quite worried but after reading this page I have understood that it is perfectly normal.

Avantika

I love this. I will never understand how our society can sit in front of a tv and see murder, rape and all other sorts of violence-it does not even faze them! But the sight of 1 female nipple sends society over the brink!

Michelle Millington

This is a great site and i belive there should be more like it. I'm a 16 year old male and am not just seeking some sexual expierience, i was indeed curious about the breastfeeding in public article. My parents are very open minded but can only encourage so much in this area, since i live in a society that feels that sex is a sin and should only be done at night and to make more and more children, and i belive that is completly wrong. Honestly, the only breasts i have ever seen in real life is my mothers, which does make me curious about others in my school and in public. I think this society is just to uptight and shouldnt be so close-minded about so many things.

Paul

I am a doula and breastfeeding educator. I also breastfed 2 babies, for 3.5 years and 3 years respectively. I nursed whenever and wherever, and rarely gave a flip about whether or not my breast was covered enough to suit the people around me. I wasn't flaunting it - but I didn't take great pains to hide it, either!

Kudos to all of those Mamas who feed their babies when they are hungry - and a big fat raspberry to anyone who has a problem with that!

DeeDee

I think nursing in pubic shows men and boys what the breast is made for. When i have children i would defintily nurse in public.

Sammy

I was so happy to see your article just when I needed it. I was just told by the principal of our school that my nursing was offending some parents and teachers. I was very upset at first. How could those I trust and admire feel this way? Now I will just give them this article and educate the educators.

Robin Ingram

I feed my baby in public and feel very good about doing it. There have been times when my nipple was exposed, but I actually didn't care, I was feeding a baby! The nipple and areola are beautiful and if a stranger sees mine I really don't care. You can cover your breast, but if there happens to be an accidental peek of nipple, so what?

Nan

I admit I enjoy seeing nursing mothers in public. Not because I wish to see their breasts, but because it arouses warm memories of my wife feeding my own children. THIS IS THE NATURAL REACTION OF ANY FATHER WHOSE CHILDREN WERE BREASTFED. The more women breastfeed, and the more men are exposed to it, the less sexual breasts become.

While breastfeeding was common in my extended family growing up, all of the women "covered up". While my wife had been reluctant to breastfeed, once she decided to do so, she absolutely refused to place anything over her baby's face. I was happy to support her in this and she nursed that boy when and whereever he wanted to. She would tend seek out quiet corners, but this was for her own relaxation, not to spare others the sight.

Davewill

What a fantastic site. I breastfed my baby in public, but I still felt a little bit embarassed. I'll make sure that I wont feel like that with my next baby.
I am currently training to become a Peer Supporter, to promote breastfeeding to all women whatever their culture, age or religion. I live in England, where like the rest of the world, breasts are seen as a sexual object for men.
My training has bought to light some scary statistics; A BABY DIES EVERY 30 SECONDS BECAUSE IT WAS NOT BREASTFED,
IT COST 35M TO TREAT BOTTLE FED BABIES FOR GASRTO-ENTERITIS EACH YEAR. The list goes on. Breastfeeding is not advertised at all and it should be. Let's start now. I'll be sure to pass this web address on to all my friends. Thanks for the support and encouragement.

Lucy

Hi! I want to say that I LOVE this web site! I am the breastfeeding peer counselor for the Greene Co. WIC office and I love my job. I am setting up a booth for a local festival and need photos to display. So thank you to the ladies that have put their pics on here. I will also use pics of myself breastfeeding my 1 year old of course! I think that society portrays bottle feeding as the norm, because people are afraid to show their breasts in public. In the first few months after my daughter was born I would pump and feed her breastmilk in the bottle when we would go into a public place. Now, after experience and my strong belief that people in public need to see a mother breastfeed to help make breastfeeding the norm instead of bottle feeding, I will feed my daughter anywhere any time! I actually hope that someone sees me do so! Maybe they will do so also or support their partners to!
Jennifer

Hi,
This is an excellent web page. I live in Brisbane, Australia where baring breasts in places other than beaches and "gentleman's" clubs is still treated with much controversy.
As a Christian man who has also struggled with porn, it now saddens me that what God calls 'good' has been used to inspire unwholesome behaviours in men.
Your page is needed in a world that is filled with hollow and deceptive propaganda about the moralising of breastfeeding. I hope that everyone who visits your page will come out with a new sense of liberty and jusitce for the right fo women to be proud of their breasts and the children that they bear into the world.

Dario Western

I think that your photos and thoughts on breastfeeding are wonderful. It is a natural function and should always be looked upon as such. I love watching nursing mums naturally feeding their loved ones.

Ian Pollock

I really love this site. I was thinking about getting implants and after seeing this site I've decided not to. And I have decided that when I have children I'm going to breast feed.

Angela

I am new at breastfeeding and I think it is a great experience and should be brought to everyone's attention, it's not like anyone from probably from the age 8 and up has not seen a breast!

Lisa

What could be more natural than feeding your infant the food nature intended them to eat... wherever you happen to be!

Nadine Gallagher

I don't have a problem with breast feeding babies in public. It brings out a sense of responsibility anywhere any time. Thanks to mothers I love them for that.

John Muhoho

I am shocked when I saw an elderly man chastize a young mother for breastfeeding her infant in public in a hospital waiting room. A woman's breast is meant to nourish babies and is just about as sexual as her hands.

all4breastfeeding

Thank you for this site! It has so much good information, and has made me feel more comfortable with my breasts. I have one comment about breastfeeding in public... There are not enough places to go when in public for some privacy. I agree I should be comfortable enough to breastfeed in public, but I am a modest person by nature, and there are just not enough "nursing rooms" out there.

Theresa

I think not hiding a thing ........ will make the curiosity disappear

cuteandcuddly

My 19yo son came home last night and asked my "Dad, what do you think of women breatfeeding in public?" My response "The sight of a woman nursing, wherever it may be, is very natural and is 2nd only to watching that child be born."
Our son is a barista in a popular cafe, and the mothers nurse on the couch that he directly faces when making coffee. I went on to ask "Which is better, a baby peacefully feeding, or one that is screaming because it is hungry?" He got my point. Besides, as a nudist I'm the wrong person to ask.;)

Paul

Hi,
There is nothing wrong in breastfeeding in public, if the mother is comfortable with that, she should go ahead. It's almost like asking someone not to eat in public :d

jayakrishnan

I believe that women should not be publically stigmatized for breast feeding. It is the MOST natural thing in the world. Nursing women should not feel ashamed to "openly" breast feed. If they want to use a blanket to shelter the baby then so be it, but they should not feel it is essential because they are in the public eye. My wife breast fed both my children in our home and in public and felt comfortable doing so.

Peter

I like this concept very much and I encourage indian ladies to feed babies in public so that men do not see that in a suprise.

anand kumar

I saw a woman breast feed in public for the first time in my 28 years at a Borders bookstore. I was aroused, curious, and embarrassed all at once. I was completely floored and thought it was only legal in a few select states. After looking into it (after all it is a most natural thing) I have a lot of respect for the woman, and others like her, who buck this ridiculous notion of the breast as merely a sexual thing and using it for its natural purpose.

Michael

I think that this is great!!!!! I have three children with my first I was blanket covered or i went to my car. The second I was a little more open. My third is almost 4 months old and I feed him as we were in wal-mart the other day grocery shopping. I got a lot of smiles and a older gentleman in a suit from church smiled and winked to show his support. A little girl said all how cute. I thought people would be less supporting. I am a counselor for WIC working toward my IBCLC. I find this very encouraging. Thanks

Carrie

I think they should like advertise it, tv commercials etc. etc., to let women know its ok to breastfeed out in public, and it will help to educate people to let them know its ok.

Nina

I agree that a woman should be able to bare her breast for the purpose of feeding her baby. It seems ok to flash the public for beaded necklaces at Mardi Gras or Girls Gone Wild Videos... why is it looked down upon for the natural purpose?

It's ok to expose our bodies on TV, the movies, magazines etc and no one seems to be able to be offended by that anymore due to desensitization! But I've been gawked at, given dirty looks, and even had one lady leave a doctor's waiting room while I was just "discreetly nursing"... and she had two kids!! If you're that uptight about your children just possibly sneaking a peak of a breast... your poor child is bound to be obsessed w/ them and all the other things you are probably trying to shelter them from!

Just my thoughts.

Chevonne

My wonderful wife has nursed all three of our girls, and we are about to have our fourth. I have no problems with her nursing in public in any manner that makes her and baby comfortable. Personaly I think using a blanket only serves to draw attention and remove any doubt abot what is hapening, where as if it's no big deal, then it's no big deal. I do, however, have a problem with flagrantley flaunting a breast in order to prove to the world "I can and there is nothing you can do about it". This is when it comes down to socialy destructive pride, and only serves to inflame and offend. by doing this I feel education and awareness are actually hindered. I'm not saying go out of your way to make sure joe public is not offended, and don't ever apologize for feeding your child, just don't go out of your way just to offend. my feelings

Kevin

I think it is wrong to cast dispersions on women breastfeeding. It is as natural as conception. To continue what Sandra said, guys walk around with shirts open, I see no reason ladies shouldn't be able to do the same. Genitalia in my mind is below the waist and shouldn't stop either sex exposing their top half.

Shaun

These pics are great. I breast fed both my children for 16 months and was never embarassed to feed anywhere. It would be great if more women were as comfortable as you.

samantha

Breastfeeding is an act of giving food, not a sexual one. One should learn to respect and admire it.

H.S.MANOHARAN

I live in France, and I must say I never saw a woman breastfeeding in public here. I even wonder if they do at home. I lived in the US, and I remember seeing women breastfeeding, especially in public parks. I don't recall anybody watching or complaining or anything. What's the fuss all about? Breastfeeding is good for the kid, so why say it's outrageous? Here in France there are pictures of women's breasts virtually everywhere (posters, ads, magazines, subway...). We get used to it, and it gets kind of boring to see breasts. Not like in the US. So let women breastfeed and encourage them!

Jacques

I tend to agree with Elizabeth. How can a nursing mother be told to feed her infant in the restroom. People should remember that the infant is being fed and that this is not a sexual thing!

Shaneel

I think you're right about breast feeding in public. If more women would breast feed in public and have more of their breast exposed, it would become more of part of the body instead of a sexual object!

Bryan

I think it is very odd indeed when society places such a great taboo on breast in general. It's not just men's fault either. From an early age men are taught by their mother they they are forbidden to see breast because it's naughty or dirty... that's why men want to see them. Because they are forbidden. I am a man, but I am not a breast man, they are simply fat and skin tissue which surrounds the mammary glands. I myself like a woman's eyes, they are the windows to the soul, don't ya know.

Allen

When you get down to it, it is really odd that we live in a society where we see women's breasts largely exposed in a sexual way (which is considered OK), but a mother nourishing her child with her breasts is considered indecent!

We can only hope that some day we will regard things the other way around!

Kim

I love to see a mother nursing her baby--wherever they may be. It is a picture of beauty, nurturing, and all that's right with the world. With base nudity shoved down our throats on MTV and the rest of the media, I have no qualms about baring a breast to nurture a child. We have an obligation to improve the mores of our society and this is a good start --reminding the illiterate of why women have breasts in the first place.

Laurie

Our society sooner or later must understand that the primary reason God gave women their breasts was so that they could feed and nurture their babies, not so they could be toys for men. Many women I believe, need to learn this fact as well and live accordingly. I have five daughters some of which think just the idea of a mother breast feeding her child is gross. This is how our society is warping the minds of our future moms. Now is the time to look at the human body through the eyes of its creator, not through the eyes of Hollywood or football commercials.

Vic

It's not just the USA that has a problem with the breast! I live in England, and find even more hostility to breastfeeding - even in my own home!!

LRGA

I think covering the female breast is wrong. The men can go around without a shirt and show their nipples but women can't open their blouse and expose their breast to feed their baby.

Sandra

I do love this article and its encouraging message. I promise to be an example.

Krista

I agree that breasts are normal and that public breastfeeding is normal. For those suggest that we go hide in the bathroom I say "Why don't you go eat in the bathroom?"

Elizabeth

I'm always struck by the concept some have that breastfeeding a baby should be done in private. Since when has eating been an "act to be done in private"?

Until every table at the public restaurant is curtained off, or every seat in the airplane is so curtained--for eating privacy!--then the very idea of a blanket needing to be draped over a breastfeeding mom and baby should be seen as similarly ridiculous.

Meiri

I think that women should be allowed to go places in public topless if they choose. There is no shame doing that. why can we (men) do but the females can't. That is discrimination against women and their rights.

que

I for one, too, would like to know, what all the fuss is about women's breasts "outside the box". Or outside the bra. We see them on nature shows, what is the difference? skin color? Ha! Breasts are breasts, and God intended them for women to nurse babies with, hello!! Not for men's sexual gratification! We only make them sexual objects thru continual cover up! Bras only hurt women, and we need to get women on the bandwagon with this and get topfreedom laws ratified!

Chuck

I am in favor of encouraging public breast feeding. I am glad to see your website promoting this. I didn't realize that public breastfeeding was legal throughout the U.S., and that there is no requirement to cover the breast while breastfeeding. I enjoyed seeing all the pictures of normal breasts. At 43, I do wonder if my breasts are still "attractive", even though my partner keeps saying they are. It is nice to be reminded that they are normal.

Terry Farrah

Can you nurse a toddler in public?

joe

Yes, you can nurse a toddler in public; however it is not a common sight. Most women feel uncomfortable with it because of general public's attitude towards nursing an older child, and opt to rather breastfeed at home only.

I've been checking your site out since you posted on bfmoms.Com and asked for input. I love it! I am a bfing mama and I nip (nurse in public) every day. I do all that I can to advocate bfing, especially womens rights to do it in public. I never cover up. I do what I need to to feed my baby comfortably. You rock for making this site!!! :)
Emily
Portland, Oregon

I have to completely agree with you 100 percent. This is something that is still very muddy in the male consciousness. Thank you for shining a light! God Bless!

walt

I think this is a good movement and I support it.

david sowers

You are definitely doing a good job.
I am psychiatrist from india and see that the rural mother is more comfortable feeding her baby than the `educated` urban one. The bottle is common a viev nowadays that one has to remind oneself that a mother can indeed feed her baby even in public. Fortunately in India a brestfeeding mother has always been looked upon with care and respect. I agree that breast has been erotisised to the extent that its only function seems to attract men. I have also noticed something like performance anxity in a mother, she thinks her milk might not be enough for the baby, while the doctors always say that this is unlikely. These mothers then anxiously turn to stop feedings. Antenatal counselling should definitely help.
Regards

dr bhadlikar

I am "so" impressed with your web site. Oh boy! You have really encouraged me. I am a breastfeeding peer councelor, but more importantly, I am a young woman of God who has a mission to minister (serve) especially the family of God with education, promotion and assistance in (Nutritional Health & Beauty Support) the area of breastfeeding, which I believe is God's best! I am saying, "Amen,amen to your comments, your concerns and your wisdom in the area of breastfeeding. I have been persecuted by many in church and out and have grown to know that God is not ashamed of me. He made the breasts. He gave them the ability to produce milk. It's His wisdom(way) so why am I going to allow someone to make me feel guilty, embarrased or ashamed about how the Lord obviously wants me to feed our children. So thank you, thank you! And keep it up! Oh, I am using a pic of you in the sun nursing for a newsletter (Chicago Breastfeeds) article called Getting Solar Vitamin D. It's great!

Latasha