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
Im so dissapointed about the new law in Chandler, Arizona, that dont allow You to breastfed your baby in public places.. What are You guys can say about this?...please tell me about it!
Alicia
Well, this directive was thrown away a few days later. You know, there is a good chance that the whole state might get a breastfeeding law now that allows breastfeeding. Such good changes and new laws often come from incidents like this, though in the meantime
there might be some heated discussions and feelings. See also
Chandler rescinds policy on breast feeding on city property.
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
I think women should nurse anytime, anywhere without feeling ashamed or embarassed. I think it's ridiculous that anyone should be condemned for doing whats best for their child. I guess that's why my friend and I started Project "Got Breastmilk?", so we could raise breastfeeding awareness and my photographs would be inspirational to all nursing moms.
Amber Parmley
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
Every restaurant (*especially* the al fresco kind), every diner, every fastfood outlet, every bar, every sushi stand--in short, every human establishment for the public consumption of nourishment--should be permanently covered by blankets. All that chomping, and sucking, and swallowing, etc., are so disgusting. They are obviously nothing to do with real, decent human beings. There should be laws banning them. EVERYWHERE!!! And while we are at it we should ban humans too. They are obviously tooooo disgusting for words. Bodies! Yuk!!! No one good and moral would be seen dead or alive in one.
Nobilangelo
Can you recommend good children's books that depict breastfeeding instead of always showing babies with bottles?
Amy
LOOKING FOR A CHILDREN'S BOOK THAT SHOWS BREASTFEEDING?
Children's Books from Kellymom.com
Children's books about breastfeeding from Amazon.com
"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
Hi,
Just my 2 cents worth - I'm from Denamrk but now live in US with my americna wife and our two daughters.
I think the issue is more the moral of society in general than the act of breatfeeding. Violence okay, naked breasts or other bodyparts very bad. Until a normal relationship to the body can be established this issue will stay the same. Which is a huge shame - we have two daughters whom both were breastfed for 10 months and it is the most natural thing in the world - I can not understand at all why somebody would elect not to do what natur intended. It's the most healhty and natural thing to do....both for mother and baby.
I find it interseting than many uses weightlos after pregnancy as a motivating factor not the health of baby or mother-baby bond.
By the way - Breasts are very much a sexual object where I come from as well - I do not think breastfeeding and breasts as sexual objects are mautaully exclusive - as long as we remember their real function. Anybody seeing breastfeeding as an sexual act is prettty messed up.
kent
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
Help! My daughter is 6 months old. Up until now, I haven't had a problem pumping brestmilk at work but recently, my employer has given me a hard time. They suggest that I use the bathroom now rather than 1 of the only 3 offices in the building that lock ( where I have been going up until now ). The bathroom is so dirty! I am so upset! We do have a stock room that locked many years ago. The lock is now broken and I asked them to please fix it and I would go there and their reply was they would "think about it".
Help!
Amy Scarsi
I think you will find help if you post your question on one of the message boards where other pumping mothers post. They have more experience and ideas as to how to handle your situation. For example Breastfeeding.com's Message Boards � Pumping and Working Outside the Home. See also Tips for moms who work & pump for more links. But anyways, don't get too stressed so that it won't affect your milk supply... : )
Long before the bottle was invented, woman where
breastfeeding their children. Why make laws and
go against nature.
bronzemouse
Doesn't it hurt to breast feed a baby?
Danyele
Breastfeeding can hurt, but not in general, and not in the long run. Have you ever seen paintings of mothers who are nursing a baby, and the mother looks so serene, peaceful, calm, loving? The mother is not hurting.
Now, many moms do get sore nipples in the very beginning, but that usually goes away as the mother learns to position the baby correctly and as the baby learns to suckle with better latch. Also, if the mother gets a yeast infection (candida), that can certainly hurt a lot.
So if you're planning to breastfeed, you can expect some pain in the nipples in the very beginning, but it usually goes away in hte first few weeks. At any rate, if the pain would continue, there is help available. See also
Sore Nipples. Jack Newman's handout.
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 womans 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. Its 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
For everyone's sake including the mothers, places where people gather ought to be conducive to relaxation. When there are no nursing mothers present, public places can promote breastfeeding by displaying a print of a painting called "She Nourishes" by Shawn Dell Joyce. It is quite fabulous because it appears that water in a lake will come down and turn into milk.
Laura
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 discrimation 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
Keep up the good work! It really is an equal rights issue.
Greg
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. It is not a common sight though since many women feel uncomfortable with it because of general public's attitude towards nursing an older child, and opt to rather breastfeed at home only.
Breastfeeding benefits a toddler, and I personally am all for letting my toddler wean whenever she is ready. Generally children who are let to wean themselves do so around 2-5 years of age. Worldwide and in history this has been a common practice, and only in this century have women started weaning in such early ages. WHO recommends nursing till 2 years of age, and AAP recommends nursing at least till 1 and after that as long as mother and child mutually desire.
So nursing a toddler is a good and healthy thing, and so nursing a toddler in public should be just a normal thing also. There is nothing wrong or illegal with it in itself.
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
