Quote From: ruannonMy 8 week old baby was born with a condition which requires that I breastfeed her on demand, wherever we happen to be...
She's a mammal.
Seriously, breastfeeding mothers do not nurse in public because we think it's attractive or beautiful, we do it because we are trying to care for our children. It is so hard being a new mother. I feel so isolated, at home alone with a baby all day. That one chance that I have to go to a restaurant or a meeting, that's my lifeline. If we further isolate new mothers by requiring them to breastfeed somewhere other than where they are, I suspect that baby abuse rates will rise. The highlight of my day yesterday was taking my daughter to the grocery store. It was the first time I'd been out in days. And we nursed, in her sling. No one saw anything (not that I really care how others feel, but *I* am uncomfortable in public if I'm not covered).
You say, "go to the bathroom or a car" but that assumes that breastfeeding is quick! I could have to nurse my daughter for half an hour. By then, the meeting's over, or my dinner's cold, or the movie has ended... I'm not going to isolate myself so that you aren't uncomfortable. If you don't like what I'm doing, look away. Furthermore, the idea of sitting in a public bathroom for 30 minutes is hideous. I'm a hoverer! Where am I supposed to sit? I had her in August - sitting in a hot car isn't an option, either. Sure, we could leave it running and turn on the AC, but gas is $3 a gallon. That's not fair to either of us. And what are we supposed to do when it's below zero? No thanks, I'll sit at the table in the restaurant and discreetly nurse my child, and if it bothers you, you can leave.
I disagree with the poster who said that "most" bathrooms have a lounge area. I know of ONE such bathroom in my entire town, and it's on the college campus, where I rarely need to go.
I would love to be able to pump and give her a bottle, but guess what, I'm pump-resistant. Look it up, it happens. So I have NO option other than to breastfeed. Would you rather see my daughter under a blanket at my breast, or hear her crying with hunger? Babies stomachs hold a tiny amount. They get hungry often. Even if I feed her right before we leave, by the time we get anywhere, she needs to eat again.
It is legal for me to breastfeed in public in my state, thank God. I have nursed at Walmart, at Kroger, at Panera Bread, at Applebee's, and at multiple doctor's offices. When my daughter is hungry, she eats. If you don't like it, you're "portable" too.
Good for you. Keep it up. You are a great mom. I know very well that feeling of isolation when you're at home all the time, and trying to be a good mom to a demanding baby.
I joined the MOMS club in my local town both before and after I moved, and they welcome babies to all their meetings and events, and encourage nursing moms to nurse at meetings and events, too.
Dr. Phil and his guests strike up heated conversations as they debate the latest hot topics. Should women give up their right to breastfeed their babies in public so other people don't feel uncomfortable? Will passing out condoms in schools prevent unwanted pregnancies or just send the message to kids that it's OK to have sex? And, is it acceptable for others to discipline your kids if they see them acting out in public, or should they just mind their own business? Dr. Phil weighs in on these controversial subjects. Share your thoughts, join the discussion.
