How to Breastfeed in Public

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Breastfeeding is so important for a baby that no mother should feel uncomfortable doing it. It protects your baby against infection and provides the best nutrition, reports Le Leche League. Unfortunately, some women are very uncomfortable breastfeeding in public. Take the following steps to help in this situation.
Learn the laws
In most states, public breastfeeding is protected by the law. In many cases, this means that you are allowed to breastfeed anywhere you are legally allowed to be. Learn the laws in your state. You will know your rights and feel less uncomfortable if you know that you are legally allowed to do it.
Buy breastfeeding clothing
Breastfeeding clothing can help you breastfeed discreetly. Many of these pieces of clothing allow you to expose just your nipple. These are available from sources such as Motherwear. You will look like you are just holding your baby when you are instead nursing him or her. Also consider a nursing wrap or simply a blanket. You may also be able to nurse discreetly while the baby is in a sling.
Join a breastfeeding support group
A breastfeeding support group like Le Leche League can help you become more comfortable with breastfeeding in general. You will have others around you who understand the importance of this process and who accepts it. After attending the meetings, you might feel more comfortable with the whole thing in general.
Look for places that offer comfortable spots
If you simply cannot get accustomed to breastfeeding in the middle of a crowded mall, then you can look for places that offer breastfeeding rooms and other such resources. For instance, The Disney theme parks offer rooms where nursing mothers can comfortably nurse away from the public. Many malls also have such a room. Some places might not have specific rooms, but they may have quiet areas where you can feel comfortable. Of course, no woman should feel like they have to choose one of those places, but if it makes you more comfortable you can look for them.
Practice
Sometimes the best way to get comfortable with breastfeeding in public is simply to do it. As you get more used to it, you might be able to do it anywhere.
Breastfeeding is wonderful; there is no reason why you need to feed your baby in a bathroom. The above tips will help you give your baby the best nutrition while not keeping you imprisoned in your home.