How to Normalise Breastfeeding Everywhere: A Guide to Confidence and Change
It is one of the natural things a mother does for her baby, but it can still be stigmatised and cause discomfort when done in public. Breastfeeding is not something to be ashamed of or viewed as unusual. It’s about time we normalised breastfeeding, and the first thing to do is to increase the confidence of mothers who are breastfeeding.
Confidence in breastfeeding starts with you
Breastfeeding yourself is the best way to make mothers feel comfortable breastfeeding in public. You can show other mothers it is okay to breastfeed their babies, whether they are at home or out in public. I have breastfed my baby in many different places over the years: on trains, buses, planes, and waiting rooms.
After my third baby, I finally figured out the best way to comfortably and confidently breastfeed. Once I had mastered it, I was able to breastfeed in public with no fear or shame. What helped me to overcome the stigmatisation? It helped me to see other mothers do it. It’s a great way to reduce the stigma of breastfeeding in public.
Change the Narrative: Ads and Representation
Aldi and Adidas have run advertisements in support of breastfeeding. Sainsbury’s, a UK retailer, has also started to do so. The ads show breastfeeding mothers, making it seem like a normal part of life. While we applaud this move, most of the women featured in these ads are model-like with a specific body type. This is not the case for the majority of breastfeeding mothers. These campaigns do normalise breastfeeding.
We still have a lot of work to do. In children’s literature, advertising, and the media, mothers should be represented in a way that reflects their diverse experiences. The less stigma that breastfeeding will have, the more we’ll see it as a normal, everyday activity.
Five ways to help normalize breastfeeding in public
You can help to normalise breastfeeding by being a mother who breastfeeds. Here are some steps you can take:
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Drop the nursing cover. There is no need to feel embarrassed or hide when breastfeeding in public. You can wear a singlet underneath your clothes if you are concerned about your modesty. This will only show the area where you have latched your baby. You can feed your baby wherever you happen to be. Others can turn away if they feel uncomfortable.
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Begin the Conversation about Breastfeeding
Talk openly with other mothers, family members, or friends about breastfeeding. Talk about the benefits of breastfeeding and the challenges. These conversations are empowering for all parties involved and can help to normalise breastfeeding. -
Document your breastfeeding journey
Take pictures of yourself. It is encouraging to other mothers when they see you breastfeeding your baby. Make a photo book that you can later share with your baby, reflecting on memories and milestones. -
More breastfeeding in Children’s Media
We still need more representation of breastfeeding in children’s media and books. Authors and illustrators could make breastfeeding a part of their everyday stories. This could have a big impact on how society views breast-feeding. -
Encourage Realism in Ads
We need to see more diverse representations of breastfeeding mothers in addition to glossy, idealised ads. Ads should show real women with a variety of body types, backgrounds, and ages.
Reduce Anxiety when Breastfeeding in Public
In 48 of the 50 states in the U.S., breastfeeding is protected as a legal right. Many mothers are still hesitant to breastfeed in public. It’s natural for new mothers to worry about their baby’s reaction or how others will perceive them. Here are some tips to help you reduce your anxiety:
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Practice First at Home
Before nursing in public practice at home in front of a reflection or with someone who you trust. You will become more comfortable with yourself and your body. It may even surprise you to see how little other people notice. -
Plan Your Outings
If you’re nervous about breastfeeding in public, start by visiting places where you know other mothers will be—like parks or cafes that are known for being breastfeeding-friendly. There are designated nursing areas in many public places. You can find a comfortable and private place to nurse with apps like “Mum’s Pump Here.”. -
Nursing bras and layers
Nursing beds are designed to be both comfortable and convenient. Breastfeeding is made easier by nursing bras. They support breast health and promote a healthy lifestyle. You can feel more confident by layering with a stretchy shirt or tank. -
Find a Quiet Place
If you are in public, choose a quiet place to breastfeed. For example, a park bench beneath a tree or a corner of a café. If you are relaxed, your baby will latch more easily. -
Be calm and watch for your baby’s signs
It’s important to listen to the signals of your child. If your baby is calm and hungry, they will likely feed themselves without fuss. This can make you feel less stressed. Take a few moments to calm your baby if they are crying or fidgeting before you try to feed them.
Fighting Breastfeeding in Public Stigma
Still, we’re fighting the stigma of breastfeeding in public. There are several ways that we can reduce and challenge this stigma.
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Educate yourself and others
Learn about the benefits and rights of breastfeeding. You can be more confident in advocating for yourself and other people if you are more informed. -
Speak up
If you are faced with discrimination or negative remarks when breastfeeding in public, do not be silent. Speak up, educate others, and shift the conversation to support breastfeeding mothers. -
Join a Breastfeeding Support Group
These groups offer a great way to connect with other mums, find support, and learn new strategies. These groups help to normalise breastfeeding, so you feel more comfortable nursing your baby in public.
Five Ways to Make Society More Breastfeeding-Friendly
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Remind people that women aren’t failing
We need to remind ourselves and others of this fact. We must all work together to change the systemic problem of breastfeeding. -
Advocate for Advocacy
Breastfeeding issues are largely female-dominated, but we need all voices, especially men’s voices, to be part of the conversation. Breastfeeding affects the entire society. It’s not just a woman’s issue. -
Support The Cause
Whether you sign petitions, donate to charities that support breastfeeding, or attend meetings that promote breastfeeding rights, any amount of support is helpful. -
Support the Breastfeeding Mothers you Know
Be a supporter for mothers who are breastfeeding. You can offer them your time or a breastfeeding guide. Small gestures can have a huge impact on someone’s breastfeeding experience. -
Share and Know Your Breastfeeding Right
If you are in a community or workplace setting, know your breastfeeding policies. Make sure that women are able to express milk in the workplace and have enough space and time.
Conclusion
We still have a way to go before we can normalise breastfeeding in public. With continued education, advocacy and support from all mothers and fathers alike, we can help create a society where breastfeeding is considered normal and not unusual or shameful. Let’s do our part in making breastfeeding a normal and accepted practice everywhere.
