Breastfeeding out of home

When breastfeeding your baby, you do not need preparations to be away from home. Milk is always ready, whenever you and the baby are ready. Breastfeeding in public is your choice and your child's right.

At home, you have established a breastfeeding rhythm with your baby, breastfeeding has become a routine and you are thinking about spending a longer time out of home. You would like a little longer family walk, shopping or coffee with a friend. Moms and their babies want to enjoy the same activities as others. If you follow modern recommendations and do not give your child any other food or fluids until the age of six months, and plan to continue breastfeeding even after the introduction of non-milk foods, then you need to breastfeed your child while you are out of home. If this is uncomfortable for you, you are bound to face numerous limitations in everyday life.

Something that was almost unthinkable until recently and was condemned by the public is fortunately becoming a social norm nowadays. Many supermarkets, children's stores, shopping malls have a breastfeeding corner, where you can breastfeed your baby. Mothers are sometimes embarrassed or concerned about the disapproving looks and comments, which unfortunately still persist.

Ten tips for making breastfeeding in public more comfortable:

  • You need to know your rights. Breastfeeding in public is allowed; not only do you give your baby the best possible food, but you also help to reduce stigma surrounding breastfeeding in public.
  • Practice in front of a mirror at home: if you are concerned that you are too naked, check in the mirror; you will see that the baby covers most of the breast, try what clothes are the most suitable.
  • Choose clothes in which you will feel comfortable.
  • Use a baby carrier wrap.
  • Use a bra that can be undone easily.
  • Choose a place that suits you. Two things are important: to be able to sit comfortably, with a backrest, and to be exposed to other people as little as possible.
  • Turn around while positioning the baby on the breast; at that point, most of your skin is visible; when the baby starts suckling, he/she practically covers the breast.
  • If you are uncomfortable, cover yourself with a cloth diaper or scarf, to give yourself some privacy, see the baby and let the baby sees you.
  • Smile!
  • Be prepared for some possible inconvenience - the restaurant manager or the shopping mall security guard might warn you. Prepare your response in advance!

If you are not confident enough to breastfeed your baby out of home, let your partner, friend, sister keep you company. Support is always welcome. Breastfeeding in public promotes breastfeeding.