Whenever a news article arises about a breastfeeding mother being asked to leave a space to feed her child, I find myself breaking my usual habit of avoiding online comments. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by supportive friends and family regarding breastfeeding, so I’m curious about the mixed reactions that surface in public discussions around this topic.
Often, well-meaning individuals pose questions that deserve thoughtful responses. One common inquiry is, “I fully support breastfeeding, but why is it so difficult for mothers to cover up in public?” While it’s wonderful to see support for breastfeeding, it’s important to recognize that feeding a baby is a natural activity that shouldn’t require a cover. Here are five reasons why many mothers prefer to feed without a cover:
1. The Challenge of Covering Up
For new moms, it can be quite tricky to simultaneously manage a cover and get a baby properly latched. Even with experience, I found it difficult to balance a blanket while trying to position my child comfortably. The only moment when one might consider covering up is during the initial latch, but doing so can complicate the process significantly.
2. Babies Often Resist Covers
Many infants dislike being covered. My little ones would frequently tug at any blanket I tried to use. Just like you wouldn’t want to eat under a blanket, babies appreciate the freedom to breathe and see their surroundings.
3. Eye Contact Matters
One of the joys of breastfeeding is making eye contact with your baby. This connection is crucial for bonding. If you wouldn’t cover a baby’s face while bottle-feeding, why would you do so during breastfeeding?
4. Covering Can Draw Attention
In my experience, using a cover often attracted more attention. When breastfeeding without one, it often appeared as though I was simply cradling my baby, rather than performing a public act of feeding. A blanket can create unnecessary attention and awkwardness.
5. The Implication of Shame
Using a cover can suggest that breastfeeding is somehow inappropriate. In reality, it’s just a natural way to feed a baby. There’s nothing shameful about it.
When discussing alternatives, some people suggest that mothers should just pump if they’re going out. While that approach works for some, it’s not feasible for everyone. Not every mother can pump successfully, and sometimes babies won’t take a bottle. The effort involved in pumping and preparing a bottle often outweighs simply breastfeeding directly, especially considering the hassle of transporting milk and ensuring it stays at the right temperature.
As for modesty concerns, I encourage those who feel that way to reflect on their feelings about modesty in general. If you feel uncomfortable seeing a mother nurse, perhaps look away or redirect your child’s gaze. Exposing children to breastfeeding helps normalize the act and underscores its purpose as nourishment, rather than something sexualized.
Breastfeeding should not be compared to activities such as using the bathroom or intimate relationships, which are private in nature. Feeding a baby is a nurturing act, and it can be done in public without the need for shame or embarrassment.
Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance that allows mothers to feel comfortable and supported. It’s crucial to respect each mother’s choice and approach to feeding their child, and to create an environment that’s accepting and understanding. To dive deeper into related topics of home insemination and family planning, check out some of our other informative posts like this one on different methods for home insemination. If you’re seeking resources on artificial insemination, Make a Mom offers valuable insights. For comprehensive information regarding intrauterine insemination, Cleveland Clinic is an excellent resource.
In summary, breastfeeding in public can be a natural and beautiful experience that doesn’t require covers. Supporting mothers in their feeding choices helps normalize and destigmatize the act of nursing, fostering a more understanding community.