Busy Bee Lauren loves babies.
I especially like babies that I can hold when they are being cute, but hand off to the mama when it cries, poops, or spits-up.
I like not having ownership of any sort of baby. It's very relieving.
Want to know what else is relieving? Not breast feeding.
I mean, I have never breast fed before {because that would be awkward, considering I don't have a fruit-of-my-loins} but from the sound of some blog posts I have read, breast feeding sounds quite...painful.
I plan on breast feeding when I am a mamacita, but in the mean time...I will enjoy a pain-free life. kthanxbye.
(this is not my child)
Anyhow. We have all had the experience of seeing a women breast feed at the craziest of places. I have seen it at the swimming pool. I have seen a boob busted out in the middle of church. Yaaaaallllllo! I have seen a boob before, but it's quite a surprise to praise Jesus, then turn your eyes to see what time it is on the wall clock, only to be intercepted by boobage. Quite a surprise indeed!
So here are my questions...
Do you think there are appropriate and inappropriate places to breast feed?
Do you think modesty applies when breast feeding?
Share your thoughts...
{thanks to Jami for submitting this week's question!}
123 awesomespice comments:
I think that whippin' out the boob in church would be a little... well... awkward. For that kind of situation, I'd probably use the pump at home and then bring it in. I mean, I'm not a mummy, but I'm pretty sure that's what I'd do. I would personally never feel comfortable breast feeding in public. :S
I know that the baby would be hungry, so you could always pump before you leave the house. Also take a light blanket or a cute sheet cover so when you do, you can cover your boob and the baby. I feel a little embarresed when women do it, but I think its because I don't have kids. My sister stood from the front seat of the Suburban to the back seat leaning her boob over us just to breast feed her son. My Husband (her brother) buried his head in his magazine, he just couldn't believe it. But to each her own!
I have a two year old that I nursed for two months(until she got sick) and I think you can always find a semi-private place to do it! Or at least, leave the crowd of people you are in and when you find a quieter place, cover up your goods! Sure it may be nature(Nature is cruel...it does hurt) but we don't need to see what nature blessed you with!
I personally think breast feeding in the middle of church is a bit weird. I would probably try to hold off until church is over, or if that's absolutely impossible, I'd move to a very back corner where I'm as hidden as possible.
I think modesty applies, I feel it's really inappropriate when a woman sits there feeding her baby not even trying to cover yourself. I know it makes me feel very awkward. It's not that difficult to cover up with a light blanket while you're doing that.
I'm new to reading by the way! I came across your twilight blog and just recently stumbled across this blog. I read back through your blog a bit and I really enjoy reading your posts. You have a good sense of humor, and I love how family oriented you are. I look forward to more posts from you.
There is definitely modesty when breast feeding, i mean come on, I know it is natural and all, but so is using the bathroom, and you don't exactly invite people to that event. As for appropriate places, no, I think any time and any where should be appropriate. This is after all you child's source of nutrition. But come on girls, a light blanket or jacket isn't to much to ask for. Plus, for those of you who don't know, the church supplies moms with a very nice mothers room, fully equipped with arm chairs, changing tables, and a sink. Now who wouldn't rather be there!
Hi! I've been readin your blog for a little bit, it's super cute. Love it! Anyway, here's my 2 cents. I have a 2 1/2 year old I didn't get to nurse (I really feel uncomfortable saying breastfeeding, and I'm a mom!) her, but I have a 4 month old who I do nurse. I have this nifty thing called a Hooter Hider that I use. First, in church-I totally go to the mom's room! That's what it's for!! And you can turn on the intercom to pipe in sound... so... it's like being in church. Anyway, I use the Hooter Hider if I'm in public, it's not see through at all and the only people who should be bothered by being pretty sure I've got a baby under it and he's eating, are people who are pervs and shouldn't be thinking about the fact that my boob is not covered UNDER the Hider! I def don't whip it out without being covered though, that is taking it too far. Yes, modesty applies when nursing for sure!! I haven't gotten the guts up to feed my lil guy in a restaurant, I'll sit in my car for that, but I've nursed him at a park with the Hider and that was totally fine...
Anyway, that was like 17 cents, but.
Okay I am not a mom...I don't have plans on ever being one! I like kids and all but only when I can hand them back to their parents when the screaming comes! BUT I think breastfeeding in public is sicknast all the way! They make really cute pattern covers for that; or blankets; or places like Disneyland that have a special building for that!! I know that sometimes it is tough for a mom but, I also think that tossing a blanket over oneself is not too much to ask for!
Modesty is required - otherwise, I'm not all that concerned about where mamas breastfeed. I about died when a lady just pulled up her sweatshirt and bared her boobies (both of 'em - she was sans bra) to breastfeed right in the middle of LAX - holy moly, that made me uncomfortable, especially since I was waiting with a male coworker for a flight, and we're staring at the boob lady in the middle of the LA airport.
As a mommy of 3 I can tell you that a great benefit of nursing (aside from the obvious health related ones) is the convenience. No bottles, no powder, no mixing, no heating. So it is silly to pump at home and bring a bottle when in public. That being said... it is SUPER easy to have a light blanket to shield yourself. People who just flash boob are being inconsiderate. By all means nurse in public but be nice to those around you and take the extra 0.5 seconds to take pity on others. But in situations like church where there is a nice handy room with comfy chairs and a speaker system set up just for the purpose of nursing it seems silly to do it in the meeting.
Free tip for b.f. pain... black tea bags on the nipples for 10 minutes 3 times a day in the days leading up to nursing and those babies will be ready for your baby... pain free :)
i'm not a mama yet, but my grad-school bff just became one two weeks ago and i have learned quite a bit about mommy-dom since. she's into the natural way of doing things, but is also concerned about modesty. this is why she made this sassy nursing cover in the weeks leading up to the baby's debut. it looks a lot like an apron, but has an adjustable strap for around your neck, a stiff collar so you can see the baby but others can't, and it covers the whole deal. it works quite well and there are patterns online.
whipping out the boob in the middle of church? that seems wildly inappropriate...there are ways around that...and more modest places.
i <3 healthy debates. :)
I absolutely think modesty applies to breastfeeding! I am a mom and I have breast fed my kids, but I have NEVER breast fed in public. The closest I've come is doing it in the car, but I kept myself well covered up(and no, we were not driving at the time). I too have seen people feeding in various public places and find it extremely akward and a little innapropriate. I think most places these days are equipped with Mother's rooms so there is really no need to just 'whip it out'. My husband says one of his most awkward moments as a missionary was walking to approach a woman at church and realizing she was breastfeeding! If you just can't help yourself, please, please make sure you are fully covered!
Breast feeding doesn't bother me as long as they are MODEST and know WHO their audience is! Breast feeding while in the swimming pool is so nasty....sorry but couldn't you just do it next to the pool instead. Be aware of the PEOPLE in your surrounding instead of worrying about the place.
I have wondered this myself. I mean if it's my aunts and just family around, no biggie. (We're a close family). And boobs don't really bother me, but I think there is a place and a time for it. I mean I feel like, if you're putting it out there, would you think I was rude if I happened to glance, it's hard not to. It's like a car accident, you don't want to look and you know you shouldn't, but it happens. One time at a baby shower my family was having for my aunt-in-law, one of my aunt's breast fed her sister's baby AT THE OLIVE GARDEN!! WEIRD! First of all, I don't know how I feel about letting your baby breast feed from someone else. Second of all, at a resturaunt, at the table, with family, in-laws, and friends, probably not an appropriate time and place. My family is just open like that, an I'm fine with it, but the in-laws (who are VERY private) were kinda disturbed to say the least!
In sacrament meeting... a little weird,,, mommys room??!! But anywhere else I think as long as your covered your good. there is no excuse to not be covered now a days cause they have so many cute booby covers!!
Always cover and if possible go somewhere private (and cover there too!). I LOVE breastfeeding. I've done it with all 3 of my kids and have had a wonderful experience each time with it! I hope the same goes for you when it's your turn!
Since I'm currently breast feeding my five month old....here is my opinion for what it is worth. I am a very modest and private person, although after giving birth to my son I understand when people say that modesty goes out the window.
Modesty is relative, though. To me, it is not worth it to bare my all. I find another classroom or the bathroom at our church. I go to the restroom in stores or dressing room in clothing stores. Although I try to time errands when he's already eaten or won't be irritable or cranky.
My son refuses to take a bottle or a pacifier, so I know that y'all would rather I calm him down...but I choose to breast feed privately because it makes others so uncomfortable (including my mil). No biggie in my mind because that way I don't have to hear the advice or criticism of well meaning passer-byers
My son eats when he wants and no one sees my goodies.
PS Once he got the latch down, it hasn't hurt.
Breastfeeding ROX but modesty RULZ.
Never whip out your boob in front of a stranger. That's just good advice.
I'll be the unpopular one here, which is fine, 'cause I never was popular when I was the age of most of your readers. Not all LDS buildings have Mothers' Rooms (three of the last 5 I've been in either didn't have one, or turned theirs into a classroom with no chair for the moms, and I've never been in a ward where there weren't at least 3 breastfeeding moms at the same time competing for the room). Not all people have sewing skills, nor the $ to buy Hooter Hiders. Not everyone has a breast pump. Pumping your breastmilk is not like turning on the kitchen sink - you can't just pump right before you go out because you want to (some women have to "recharge" so to speak and need time). Not all blankets stay up over your shoulders when you're trying to cover yourself. Not all babies like to be under cover, and some of them overheat or just plain rip the blankie off their mothers.
As a breastfeeding mom, my answer is "If my child needs to eat, I'll feed him/her when they need to eat as best I can." I personally don't like to feed in public, so I make as many arrangements to avoid that as possible (fortunately I have a breast pump, I can sew a cover, and I choose to use formula in situations like this), but sometimes that's not always easy to do. So, when I see a mom doing something that others find uncomfortable to watch, or inappropriate in their eyes, I cut her some slack and give her the benefit of the doubt. I personally know a woman who chooses to breastfeed because her husband makes just barely too much money for them to be on WIC, but they are struggling from paycheck to paycheck and they can't afford to buy formula. When I see her breastfeed in public, I know that she tries to stay part of the conversation because leaving the room/park/RS activity just to avoid other people being put-out only reminds her of her bad financial situation ("If I just had enough money for formula I could feed the baby AND not make people uncomfortable." she once told me). The baby is completely innocent in this situation. S/He can't help being hungry. But we, the adults, can help wether or not we choose to be offended or judge those moms who are trying to feed their child.
I think that breast feeding in public is inappropriate. If you are going to a place where you know that the bathroom is not going to be a sufficient place to sit and feed your child....then pump. It's all about planning ahead. I don't even like when my sisters or sisters in law breast feed in the living room while I am visiting. If they make sure to have a good blanket covering their two ladies and the little one I am ok with it, but if not....find a quiet room. I grew up in a very private household so I am usually pretty suprised when I see moms just whip it out in a public space. I don't like it. I find it immodest....and somewhat strange.
It's really strange when the child breast feeding is as old as 3 and can actually ask for the mom's milk....yeah gross!
I think it all totally depends on situation for nursing in public. At my uncle's funeral, I sat in the foyer because I felt too emotionally separated to go into the mother's room. If I'm with family, I'm not going to leave the room. Feeding my child is a dumb reason to banish myself. We have plenty of alone-time at home. And for heaven's sake, cover up. Even if I trusted all men not to be pervs, it's still just mean to assume that they're comfortable with you flashing them. And I'm sure their wives would appreciate your not sharing your private parts with the manfolk.
Appropriate places ... I don't know that I would stay in sacrament meeting to nurse. I do prefer going into another room with the other moms. Most other places are free game. Sacrament meeting I prefer to give others as few distractions as possible.
Yes there are inappropriate and appropriate places for breastfeeding. AS a breastfeeding mama right now I would NEVER whip my boob out in sacrament. There is such a thing called a mothers room and guess what... it has a speaker in there so you hear all of sacrament. I have breastfed in public... disneyland to be exact but I wasnt exposed to anyone. I have a knocker blocker. Breastfeeding was never painful for me. Some peoples nipples crack and bleed, mine never did. I wouldput Vitamin E tablets on mine just in case though. I have had someone ask me if they could take a picture of me breastfeeding and I quickly turned this MAN down. Thats ridiculous.
Sorry ladies, but I have to disagree with most of you. I understand that Mormons are particularly modest. But I have two daughters. I breastfed them both. In public. Mostly without covers or hiders. This is not to say that I just popped a boob out. I wore shirts that were specially designed to hide my boobs while my daughter was eating. I would feed them walking around the mall tucked into a sling. Before I had children I couldn't imagine breastfeeding in public. After 60 hours of natural labor in my in-laws hall...No biggie! I became very proud to breastfeed in public and refused to allow peoples' glares in a restaurant to keep my girls from enjoying their meal, without a blanket smothering their face. And to the people who would tell me to go in a restroom to feed them: I suggested that they take their lunch in the bathroom at a mall and see how they liked eating in there! I am Cathlic and our church had no mothers room so I fed her in the back of church. She was quiet, happy and our family was together with God. I felt that I set an example for people to breastfeed no matter the situation becuase it is the best for baby. Cover or not, it is your choice and your comfort, but breastfeed if you can!
Its absolutely wrong to whip out your boob to nurse in public!!! i nursed 3 children and NEVER did it in a public setting- It is a respect issue for me- i feel awkward around people who do it in front of me so i would never want anyone to feel that way- cover up and even better get out of the room!!! wow i sound mean...... really i am a nice girl- :)
Thorny Tree Lady has a point. You gotta get it done and that child is not going to wait. And I hatehatehatehate pumping. Me and pumps just do not mix well. They really aren't just for anybody and they can be expensive. One more time: hate pumping.
This sounds callous, but I do try to be modest when it's people not accustomed to seeing my boobs - for everybody else, you can just get over it. thx.
LOL - I definately think that there is a time and a place.
We have had problems with women breastfeeding in the middle of Sacrament meeting and it is just very distracting. For kids it is downright embarrassing. This is why we have a mother's room in each building.
Some people are very successful at breastfeeding in a way that you would never know. But other women truly have a hard time getting everything adjusted, getting baby to latch on, etc...
I think for the most part breastfeeding should be done privately. Not everyone is comfortable with it and I always thought it was a private time with baby.
OOOH, this made my freaking DAY! I got rain last night, and a nursing debate today...LIFE IS GREAT!
Well I nursed Grace for FOREVER it seemed like. Loved it. But seriously...the nursing/mothers room at church is AMAZING. All of the fun mommys go in there during church, and we get to chat while nursing. It is great. Why would you WANT to miss out on that?
Second of all, I LOVE boobs, but seriously, nursing without a cover, or in private is wierd. It isn't like men or boys or women are getting turned on by a women nursing without cover...but they just feel down right WEIRD!
I loved this!
keep the boob in please. find a private area...no one wants to see boobs. yes, modesty applies.
one more thing. I hate it when some gal who believes it is her god given right to nurse (boob exposed) infront of multitudes of people gets mad when someone tells her to cover up!
Seriously, there have been times when some guy is using the "f" word too much in front of me, and I ask him to stop. HELLO!! If some women is exposing her boob to my hubby man, and little boy I would say something...or give her a dirty look!
But it just bugs when that gal makes me feel like the retard...no, my boobs are covered!
I gotta agree with Thorny Tree Lady on this one. I lean a bit more to the free and easy side of things here. I don't cover up at home or in front of my family unless other people are over. I have nursed in sacrament meeting before and nobody even noticed because I was discrete about it. You don't have to be all obvious that that's what you're doing. There have been many times when I haven't had something handy to cover with when a friend came by and it wasn't until I was done and putting myself back together that they realized I was even nursing at all. They just thought I was holding my baby while we chatted.
That being said, I do try to be conscious of other's feelings. I know it makes some people uncomfortable and in public I take my hooter hider or a blanket but if I'm in the car in a parking lot or in a mother's lounge I don't bother. My Peanut didn't usually like being covered and frequently pulled the blanket off anyway so I had to figure out how to keep myself almost completely covered without a blanket or hooter hider and trust me, it is possible.
And speaking of mother's lounges, have you folks even been in one of those since you were the baby being nursed? Cuz seriously, in the building I'm in now the room is barely big enough to fit two chairs with the back against one wall and my feet two inches from the other wall. If there are two moms already in there what is the third mom supposed to do? Not feed her baby? And like Thorny said, some buildings don't even have a mother's room at all.
As for the argument that "it's a natural process but so is going to the bathroom and we don't invite people in there" that is true, but eating and going to the bathroom are two different things. We all eat in public. Just sayin'.
All in all, I think if you feel comfortable nursing in public, feel free, but be discrete and courteous about it and if possible use a cover.
I nursed both my babies. With the first one it was painful but I used Laniosh breast cream and it was AMAZING! The baby got the latch down and we were good to go after that. Anywho...I always made sure to nurse the baby BEFORE I left the house. If I needed to feed the baby while I was out I would make sure to find a private place to do it...or head to the car. I know that nursing is natural and the absolute best for a baby...but I just didn't think it was natural to have randoms seeing my goodies. haha!! I always had a thin receiving blanket to cover us up too.
I'm not uncomfortable when others nurse around me...as long as they don't just whip it out for the world to see. A thin blanket makes us all feel a little better. Baby included...I hate when people watch me eat. :o)
I have seen plenty of women tactfully nurse in public...and not once give the world a peep show. Therefore I know it can be done. I have also been around people that don't care who sees their tata's, and that really bothers me, especially when they are whoopin them out in front of my husband. It might not bother you or your family, but it bothers me and mine.. so knock it off! :D
Lauren...new to your blog, love it! I only nursed for 2 months (loads of problems, wouldn't wish on anyone!) but I NEVER did it in public! I have 2 S-I-L's currently nursing and they both use a cover and go into another room when they need to. Your kids get on a schedule and you know when they're going to be hungry, so plan ahead! Yes, nursing is natural...but no one else wants to see it! If you are in public, use a blanket or one of the covers made for nursing (they're cheap, like $10!). Just my opinion...
I breastfed all three of my babies and never did it in public. I believe modesty DOES apply, and I think it's so weird when a woman breastfeeds right there in church!
Hmmm this is hilarious. There are these crazy things called "Mother's Room", "Bathroom", "Car", "Bedroom"...etc..etc. These all are perfect locations for nursing. Please don't put your boob out there for all to see. I don't think heavenly father ever said toplessness was okay...in any public place. No matter what the reason....!
I definitely think there is an appropriate way - and an inappropriate way - to breast feed in public. The woman who whipped out her whole chest to feed a nearly 1-year-old without covering in any way ONE THE METRO was completely horrifying. I was completely baffled. Put a blanket over yourself or something!!
I feel very strongly that if you feel the need to nurse anywhere other than your own home....keep it covered. If anyone and I mean ANYONE other than my husband is around I will pull out my hooter hider and cover up.. it's so uncomfortable trying to have a conversation when a boob is out. I think it's just fine as long as it's covered.
At a elder's quorum bbq a lady in my ward just whipped her's out....I'm like Uh hello! If she had a cover...no one would have cared. For real.
I understand that having a baby and having to breast feed can be rough and frustrating, but I think that women should still show modesty. Find a restroom at church or find a restroom anywhere for that matter! Ya know? LOL.
most DEF breast feeding shouldn't happen in public. Yes that baby needs to eat- but you can find somewhere to hide while he/she does it. If anyone thinks men aren't turned on by seeing a baby nurse.. um... you're wrong.
What about huge swollen boobs wouldn't men like?
Also Lauren.... I love your belt
xo
I don't have a problem with breastfeeding in public as long as it is done modestly and with respect for others around you. That is what Hooter Hiders are for, ladies! (I can't wait to use mine in a few months!)
As for church, our building has a mother's room for that! If there is not a mother's room, I would definitely try to find an empty classroom or somewhere more private than the actual worship service or Sacrament meeting.
Yes, baby needs to eat when they need to eat, but it is also all about planning ahead. If you know your child is always starving during Sacrament meeting, and there are no private areas to nurse, then change their schedule, and feed them before you leave for church. It's all about planning.
That is a hard question.
Personally, I would rather feed my baby in private. At church, I go to the Mother's Lounge. That said, my daughter does not like her face to be covered when she is nursing. So in the mother's lounge, the other Moms have to deal with my boobage. But that is okay with me, because I usually have to deal with theirs too.
When visiting family and etc, I will cover up with a blanket. I usually hold the edge of it in front of that side so Baby B's face isn't covered since she doesn't like that and will rip the blanket off. If possible I will go into another room to nurse her so no one has to feel uncomfortable.
When going places like the zoo and etc, I will usually feed the baby in the car before going in and do my best so that I won't have to feed her in public. If it can't be helped, it's a blanket all the way.
I do nurse in front of my other kids. I think that it will help them not be uncomfortable with seeing their wives nurse when they grow up.
Human have not always had bottles to feed babies. I'm against people who are showy about it. Kids eat when they have to eat and sometimes it's not convenient. I don't have a problem at church, but leave and go to a nursery or a quiet room. I've seen it LOTS at football games. What's the big deal? Throw a blanket over your shoulder and the baby and feed the kid. If the venue requires silence or no distractions, leave the room.
Ok, I hate nursing Baby Boots in public. I'm definitely covered all of the time, but I try to find the most remote place possible. He hates taking a bottle, so the pump and go option really doesn't work for us.
Most awkward place I've breast fed? On a plane. Thank goodness Mr. Black Sneakers was next to me. When Baby Boots and I flew alone we asked for an empty seat next to us. I'm grateful the flight wasn't full. Sitting that close to a stranger while doing it would have freaked me out.
It's not an easy thing for me to do to begin with. Why add the public spectacle. Oh, yeah, and it does stop hurting. At least until they get teeth I hear...
bahahaha!
Great debate Lauren!
I do have thoughts, yes sir. First off... breastfeeding is the bomb.com. It's not always fun...and at first(for like 4 days) -you're right- it's painful. But it's soooo worth it for the baby... and burns hundreds of calories a day for you. So it's awesome. Having said that, NO!! It's NOT OK to breastfeed in public! Unless of course "they" are fully covered from a nursing blanket. It's so annoying when you see boobs at church- C'mon!!! That's what the mother's room is for... it's not that hard to get up and go sit in that comfy recliner. Anyway.
There were so many uncomfortable moments breastfeeding in a bathroom stall since Brody didn't like a nursing blanket over him... but I'd do that because it's just plain rude and uncomforable to others around you, with your girls hanging out! Nursing blankets though, are A-OK... just thought I'd reiterate that. (:
Funny story involving breastfeeding... meh, maybe I'll just blog about it... this comment is ultra long.
Well, I think breast feeding is natural. Some people are grossed out by it...I'm not. Whipping the boobage out in church? Um...I would at least retire to a more private place to do it. And now-a-days, there's so many garments that can be used to keep yourself modest while tending to your little one :) SO I really don't see any problem with it, as long as its done with a little modesty :)
Well they could at least use a blanket to cover themselves up right? As long as I can't see any boobage I'm fine with where ever anyone chooses to breast feed.
I personally will find a more private place because accidents happen and I don't want the whole ward seeing my girls...
I breastfed my son for a year and I always had something to cover myself up with when I fed him in public. If possible I'd find one of those mother's rooms for more privacy or I'd go to my car depending on where I was. At home I didn't care of coarse, If he needed to be fed and people were around I just said listen up I'm going to fed him now so whoever doesn't want to be here for it can leave. Most of the time no one cared. LOL As far as pumping believe me when I say it's stupid to pump at home and then use it when your out. I tried it and all it does is hurt me! I would become engored and then had no way to relieve the pressure unless I fed him instead of giving him the bottle, which the bottle would have to be warmed anyway so it's just not worth doing! But maybe some mothers don't care who sees their breasts and honestly you shouldn't care either. It's their life and if they want the entire world to see what they got then let it be.
When do you think it's time to STOP breastfeeding should be the ? My sister saw a lady breast feeding a CHILD.. oh about 5 years old. Just whipped out her boobs and everything was hanging out for the WHOLE world to see. Did I mention that she was breast feeding her 5 year old?? GAROSS!!! :( I know that when I have a child and start breast feeding it will be done in private.
Sadly, breasts have been so fetishized that they can no longer be seen in their original light, which is, HELLO, to FEED OUR OFFSPRING.
If they were not made such sexual fetish objects, breast feeding (which is normal and natural) would be a more accepted practice to do in public, as well as in private.
I am all about de-fetishizing the breast and having people see it for something more than a sex object. Thus, I feel there needs to be more breast feeding in public. If "modesty" is someone's bag, well then by all means please cover yourself, but I think it's important to examine the reasons WHY we see breasts the way we do and WHY we feel it is important to cover them despite their clear functionality for a mother. I mean, men don't cover their nipples, and theirs don't even serve a function. Talk about a gratuitous, weird double standard...
Just an addendum to my post:
It is HORRIFIC any mother has to breast feed in a bathroom stall, or even a bathroom for that matter. Breast feeding should not be an act that is banished or shunned. We spent a lot of time talking about public places that are inappropriate, but come on...a "private" place like a bathroom is just degrading.
I am a fairly modest person, so I have always used the Mother's lounge at Church. When I've been on a flight and had to breastfeed my children I've just done my best to be very careful and keep EVERYTHING covered.
I don't think there's any reason to whip everything out for everyone to see--maybe it's easier for me because even when I'm breastfeeding there ISN'T THAT MUCH TO SEE ; )
I'm not a mommy yet but do plan on breast feeding when I am. I'm pretty sure I would never just whip out the boob in church and quit frankly, any public place unless I have the coverings to cover my baby and myself properly! If everything goes as I'd have planned, (which is pretty slim as NOTHING has gone as planned so far in my hubby and I trying to become parents) I'd pump before any outing so it's not a worry for me or an issue of anyone being uncomfortable when a feeding is needed in public!
ha ha, I totally have a pic on my blog of me and a girlfriend breastfeeding together in public. We both have hooter hiders. I try to find a quiet place with out people around or go sit in a dressing room when I can, but sometimes there is just no where to go! So I definitely make sure no one can see a boob, but sometimes you have to do it.
They have hooter covers now! They keep you modest! You can stay covered up! I also used the mother's lounge at church! but doing it in the middle of the chapel is wrong! I dont think we should be banished or shunned because we nurse, but we shouldn't expose ourselves!
Just FYI, Phase I LDS chapels do NOT have nursing mother's rooms and having nursed four other babies (back when we attended church at the stake center), I'm determined to do the same for this one. Our little chapel is also too crowded and there are NO free areas during either Sunday School or Primary. Sacrament meeting is held in a portable next to the chapel (because we have outgrown it completely for those purposes and because we're "classy" here in Oklahoma), so I could go back to the chapel to feed the baby, but there is no intercom and no way to hear Sacrament mtg.
This leaves me with the 'covering up' option which I hope this baby will allow for because not every baby likes it. I do think both mom and baby's comfort are equally as important as the comfort of those around them when it comes to modesty and while I nurse in public, I'm certainly not an exhibitionist. However, it was considered normal on my mission in Italy (another place where church meetinghouses take what they can get space-wise and don't have all the comforts of a typical church building or stake center) and I'm a firm believer in its benefits to the baby even if I'm not sure how I'm going to pull it off without offending anyone this time. Sorry not to read all the comments, but when I got to the 3rd "HEL-LO NURSING MOTHERS' LOUNGE" comment, I had to explain that not every LDS mom has that benefit and I am painfully aware of that right now. (I blogged about it last week as a matter of fact. But it was a whiny post and I may have deleted it.)
My mom just had a baby and it is something I have thought about since she breast feeds. I think it is totally fine to do it in public as long as you are covered.
~First of all,I don't think breastfeeding is ever inappropriate. However,I do feel that a cover-up or blanket should be used in public. If people gave me dirty looks when I was nursing,I gave them right back. Honestly though,it was really rare.
~I breastfed all 4 of my kids and I LOVED it. There was a little bit of pain with my first one,but nipples toughen up.
I COMPLETELY agree with this comment that derrickadee made...
"It is HORRIFIC any mother has to breast feed in a bathroom stall, or even a bathroom for that matter. Breast feeding should not be an act that is banished or shunned. We spent a lot of time talking about public places that are inappropriate, but come on...a "private" place like a bathroom is just degrading."
I'm a nursin' mama and I have to say that I am always paranoid about nursing in public. I made myself a little "hooter hider" (yes, that is really what some people call them) and even then, I usually go to my car, a bathroom stall, or some other place where I'm not on display. I can understand why some women aren't shy about it, but I do think there needs to be some modesty. I wouldn't want someone's lifestyle forced on me, so I wouldn't want to force mine on someone else. Just sayin'.
Here's my 2-cents. Breastfeeding is a totaly normal, natural part of motherhood. Sometimes you have to feed in public and not always in the most modest manner. For those of you who have not yet gone through this, when your baby is hungry that milk is coming out whether your baby is latched and covered up or not and contrary to popular belief, they are not always on a set feeding schedule. Breastfeeding is difficult enough without having to worry about whether or not you're offending anyone in the process.
Breastfeeding is not painful as long as you relax and take your time. Just like anything else, it takes a little while to learn - for mommy and baby. Good luck with that someday!
As far as breastfeeding in public, for the most part I think it is a comfort-level thing. Babies have to eat, and if the mama is okay with it, go for it! But, yes, modesty applies - that's what they make blankets for! And at CHURCH!?!? Um, was the mother's room broken that day???
This is a fun debate since I am currently breastfeeding my six months old. I love it so far, and I would say its only bad the first week. I definitely would say that modesty does apply while breastfeeding. Personally I would never breastfeed in Sacrament, a restaurant or a pool...but I would totally understand why someone would. Convenience. However hooter hiders are a must! I feel comfortable feeding him in front of my family(with a cover) or in the mothers room, but if I'm out and about I'll bring a bottle.
Okay, so everyone has their own level of comfortability ( i think i just invented that word). But I think covering up, or at least attempting to (sometimes babies are good at pulling those blankies or cover up things out of their face and exposing booby on their own)is most appropriate. I admit I may not be the most worried about it in front of my family. I don't show nipple, but my small boobs don't really hang out. A baby's head generally covered me up pretty well. I think america in general isn't tolerant enough of breastfeeding in public. I think if your basically covered up than people shouldn't be giving you the stank eye for feeding your baby in public. I was always one to take advantage of the mother's room during sacrament meeting as well, but honestly I know I nursed in a back corner of relief society and young women's covered with a blanket. I think even in sacrament meeting it shouldn't be a big deal if you cover up. So basically my huge comment just should say, I think as long as you cover up there is no place I find to be innapropriate.
i don't have kids but i do have breasts. But, i don't want to show them to the public for any reason.
I think public breast-feeding is fine and a lot of times necessary, but like The Nye's just said, the Hooter-Hider is a key element in making this possible without frightening most ppl.
Modesty applies. And if the mama is modest, then I think she can breastfeed here, there, or anywhere.
I don't want a free show when I am out hanging with my hubby in a public place. Breast feeding is great for babies and mommies, but there are things like BLANKETS that can be used to cover up. One woman was feeding a baby in the audience of a hockey game I was at. It was like HELLO nipple!
Personally...I don't really care where mommies breastfeed. When you have a screaming hungry baby, your obligation as a mother is to feed it. That being said...I do think modesty applies! I think breastfeeding is completely natural ~ and am definitely pro-boob in terms of feeding babies ~ but out of respect for everyone else around you, I think it's best to cover up as much as possible.
one time while i was in beauty school a lady breast fed while i was doing her hair. I almost dyed of awkwardness. I don't think people should breast feel in public, there is usually a more private place to go. Also there are cute covers now that people can buy that are huge so you can do everything in private.b
It's interesting reading comments from those who haven't had children yet. Breastfeeding is sometimes percieved as awkward and gross until you yourself have the chance to nurse your own child and realize how wonderful and natural it is. I was the same way before I had my girls and had the splendid task of tandem nursing twins. Try that in public, I dare you!
I made two trips every sacrament meeting for 10 months so that they would be fed in time for me to go to Young Womens. Thankfully we had a large mother's lounge just for that purpose.
I think it's sad that there is so much negativity with women breastfeeding in public. I think it's awesome when I do happen to come across it which isn't very often.
Just as derrickadee commented previously, breastfeeding isn't sexual or gross {even though our culture sometimes portrays it as such} and it shouldn't be confined to nasty bathroom stalls. You can be modest and breastfeed in public and in sacrament if necessary.
umm heck no it is not appropriate to do it in public. i know it is natural and beautiful but c'mon it makes people uncomfortable!!
either pump so you can feed your chillen a bottle or excuse yourself to the lavatory or somewhere private.
i was at a dog party the other day and a lady whipped out her boob and started feeding her like 3 year old kid. he was eating hamburgers and stuff he can wait for your boob later...or just stop altogether.
I'm just sayin'....keep it private ladies. Just my opinion though.
I have HUGE opinions about this!
I nursed all 3 of my children, and I LOVED it! I am a pro-nurser! HOWEVER, it needs to be done in private.. I have been in cars, outside, and lots of hidden places if there wasn't somewhere to go, I always had a cover up! Even in HOT weather!
Just because nursing gives my baby nourishment, it's still my boobs, and MANY men get turned on by seeing women Breastfeed.. So.. I get so angry when a woman just whips it out and does it in public. In fact.. I think it's selfish. I think there should be a law that it has to be covered......Your baby can cry for a few minutes while you turn your chair to a wall or something...
My girlfriends and I all nurse in front of each other, but they would never just whip it out if my husband was sitting there too.. It's uncomfortable to be around it! Is it a modesty issue?? ABSOLUTELY!
I get kinda wary when my husband sees someone else's boob. Me? I don't care..boobs aint no thing for me to see, but for guys? eh...not so much.
What a wonderful topic! Since I am currently a breastfeeding momma I do have some insight on the subject. I feel completely comfortable breastfeeding under a light blanket at my mom's house in the same room as them. Anywhere else....not comfortable at all. There is no way in heck I would do that at my inlaws house or anywhere else. I do have to do it in the mother's lounge at church but usually I am the only one in there. Even if there is someone in there I don't mind so much because nothing is showing and they are women just like me. To me, it is a matter of comfort and I just don't feel comfortable doing it in front of anyone but my immediate family. That is my take:)
Modesty ALWAYS applies!!!
Knocker Blocker = NECESSITY!!!
I know I am beating a dead horse, but breast feeding in a bathroom stall is sad, degrading and unnecessary :(
That is where people urinate and excrete fecal matter. I don't foresee many women being ok with giving their child a bottle in a bathroom, so why is it ok to banish a nursing woman to a bathroom?
I know some women wouldn't dare nurse in public, and that is fine. I just hope they never feel FORCED into a bathroom. Sadness.
I am a momma and I did breastfeed my boys. I know some people get weirded out by it, but I loved it! I did feed in public, but I always covered up. Hey if the baby is hungry you gotta feed it! I have fed at the zoo, while eating lunch at a restaurant and even while grocery shopping at Wal-Mart. It is painful to start out with, but it goes away.
I don't want anyone to have to breast feed in the bathroom either. That is sad.
He he. I love the {this is not my child} insert :D
Plus that little boy looks way too old for breastfeeding!!
I breastfeed with both my kids. Allie was a champ but Mark hated it. Sometimes it hurts but its different with each kid.
As for my opinion on the matter. I like to milk in private! That's why God invented Mother's rooms and Hooter Hiders!!
My friends and I were just discussing this very topic the other day. I think breast feeding is natural, beautiful and all the business but when you are sharing your beautifulness with random people when you are applying for a loan at the bank (yes I actually witnessed this event!) I think this is a little much. Its more appropriate to cover yourself with a hooter hider or a blanket. You can do that just about anywhere. However I have no kids so maybe your thoughts and feelings on the subject change once you actually have to do it, I dunno.
I totally believe in discretion and modesty whilst breast feeding. My DIL's friend was telling this story about a woman in Payless shoes that just whipped one out and held her baby out to it (woman and her breast were on the very large size). She walked around and continued to shop with her top half off.
Yes it is a right and the best way to feed an infant. We do not have to shove it in people's faces.
That's my opinion anyway.
And yes I did breast feed two of my children. One was not willing- loooooong story.
Nursing babies have to eat. They just do. And sometimes it's in the middle of Sacrament Meeting or a trip to the mall. They get hungry just like formula fed babies and nobody tries lynching a mom with bottle, so we can't go hating on the moms that feed with the boob.
I nursed my first baby and I was SO scared to nurse in public. I usually hid and yes, I nursed several times in a bathroom because I felt like people were judging me. Shame on me. I'm nursing my 2nd baby now and I don't hide anymore. I nurse her wherever I am, but I do cover up. That's just me. I don't want anyone seeing these puppies! LOL However, I don't hate on a mom because she doesn't cover up. We're all just moms trying to do the best we can in the best way we know how.
I love this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXERUn2mJKU&feature=player_embedded
I also love this quote from PhDinParenting (http://www.phdinparenting.com/):
"That means that I do not show more skin when breastfeeding than would be acceptable for anyone else that is not breastfeeding to show in that same environment. So please, don’t have a hissy fit if you see 1 inch of my flesh when your wife is wearing a shirt that shows at least 3 times as much of her breasts."
Perfectly put.
I don't nurse in Sacrament Meeting because I'd rather fall asleep in the comfy lounge chair in the Mother's Lounge. However, if someone has changed a poopy diaper in there and moms are passing out because there is no ventilation in the closet they call at mother's lounge at my building, then yes, I'll sit in the back of the room and nurse in Relief Society or find a quiet classroom. I do nurse at the table out to dinner because I want to go to dinner just like the lady across the room feeding her baby a bottle. I really don't see the difference. Like I said before, nursing babies have to eat.
BTW - My first breastfeeding experience with my son was AWFUL! Like crying, bleeding, sobbing awful. I persevered, saw a lactation specialist, and worked it out. Soothies are miracle workers and the Medela nipple shield saved my life.
July 20, 2009 6:45:00 PM MST
heck yes modesty should apply when breastfeeding!! I mean, it's not like you're 'trying to get a rise' when you're breastfeeding (hopefully), but in church?! that's why there is a 'mother's lounge' WITH a speaker so you don't miss much! YAAAAALLO. haha good one, Lauren. :o) I very much plan on covering up.
There is a mother at my church who breast feeds, and has had to at church before, but she has this nifty little cloth cover thingy that she slips on over her neck and it keeps her tata's hidden.
I understand, a baby has to eat when a baby has to eat, but if you're going to breast feed, keep those ta-tas hidden please and thank you
i'm am NOT proud to say i have great nursing boobies! it hurt the first day for me, but never again after! so lucky me...i guess... we'll see what happens with baby 2, cuz all kids can nurse different.. anyways, i think if there is a place set aside to nurse, like at church, where you can still turn the speakers on to hear the sacrament meeting.. you should do so. sometimes there aren't places set aside. so i think you should find a place where not a lot of people are and bring a blanket or something to cover up. HOWEVER, if you are comfortable nursing in sacrament meeting or in the middle of a group of people, than i say go ahead and do it! i'm not offended. sometimes it can be gross if in between the "latching" on or off part you just let it hang around for everyone to see, that can be.. well gross, cuz your boobs are stretched out and enlarged.. and spuing milk.. but i who's arent right? i guess i have no opinion! do whatever feels comfortable. no one else should matter!
Quick note: your new background made it impossible for me to read this post without highlighting it all first.
I wish I had time to read these comments cause I'm sure there is some good and funny stuff in here.
Anyway, I think breastfeeding in public is always okay so long as you are modest and your child is under age 2.
Second, in nine months of breastfeeding I only found it painful about three of those days.
Last, I have breastfed in Relief Society. If I can't breastfeed in a room full of women I know, where can I? I mean, should I really have to miss the lesson just because some women are prudish? I think not.
What an interesting topic! It's nice to hear so many different comments, as I am pregnant and will be breastfeeding when the baby is born.
In my opinion, "public" is a wide term and I really think it applies to where you are. I wouldn't right in the middle of sacrament meeting, definitely not, but I bet it is hard to always plan ahead when the baby will be hungry. I think modesty does apply, not everyone wants or cares to see your boobs so at least keep them covered!
The worst time I ever saw breast feeding in public was at Disneyland a few years ago. This woman just reached in, whipped out her boob, and then her little daughter WALKED UP TO HER and started sucking away!! I don't care who you are, if your child can WALK UP TO YOU and start drinking, especially in public, something is wrong there. I'm just sayin....
Everything I have to say has been said. I completely agree that it is a private bonding time for mommies and babies. My s-i-l will nurse in the middle of family game night and it makes me feel a little uncomfortable. She covers up with a blanket but I can still hear her baby smacking loudly and it is kinda distracting when you are trying to play scattergories! I am all for breastfeeding...but not around other people. Or at least ask if anyone will feel uneasy. I would never say anything, but at least I would feel like she was trying to be polite and considerate. And as for breastfeeding being the same as adults eating and we wouldn't want to eat in the bathroom with a blanket over our face...sorry, I think there is a major difference. I don't need to expose anyone's tatas to eat a sandwich!
i think breastfeeding is fine in public i mean they make those blankets where u can cover right? but at church? go to the bathroom or something! lol
Nursing doesn't have to be painful at first it doesn't have to be...get the lactation consultant in your room for your first feedings in the hospital! Breastfeeding was one of the hardest but most rewarding things I have ever done.
NOW: If you are covered up I think it is perfectly acceptable to nurse in public. It is polite to ask the people your with if it bothers them, if you nurse COVERED UP in the same room as everyone. Or if you KNOW it does not bother you or the people your with, in a private setting, go uncovered if you so wish.
I personally just hated going in another room if you're with family or friends, then you just sit in the other room listening to everyone have a good time and you feel left out. All because you wanted to do the best thing for your baby.
I think it depends on your personality ultimately. I would have never thought I would be comfortable even nursing covered in a room full of people and now I couldn't care less if anyone saw my ta-ta's, I'm just looking out for others :)
I think it totally depends on the situation and culture. In the culture I live in, keep it hidden. However, I served a mission in Brazil and saw women breast feeding ALL THE TIME. Seriously. In the culture there it is not only acceptable, but normal to publicly nurse your child. Nobody thinks twice about it. It was a shock at first, but I got to the point where I didn't notice at all.
So I think it depends on where you are. For me, personally, I will keep everything covered up when I one day have children!
ok, so having nursed four kids, i have to say...use a blanket! there's never a reason for anyone to have to look at your boobage. seriously. it's no big deal. at all.
and by the way, if you teach your baby to latch on properly, it doesn't hurt at all. i mean, you have to stick with it for six weeks - you will be a little bit sore for two weeks or so, but it's no big deal and TOTALLY worth how awesome it is to never have to mix a bottle in the middle of the night while baby screams. after six weeks, you're a total PRO and you'll be so glad you stuck it out. :)
I have 2 girls who I have nursed until they have turned 1 and a baby that I will do the same with. I can't pump for health reasons but I can tell you this... I have always covered up when I am out in public. I don't want people looking at my body bottles and I'm sure they don't want to look. It's super convenient to take a little light blankie with you to cover up. It takes seconds. I will excuse myself and go to another little area if I think someone will be uncomfortable but I think if someone still has a problem with it even after covering up and stepping away then too bad for them. Nursing is seriously my favorite thing when they are babies. It's something only I can do and it gives us time to connect. You will be a great mommy when the time comes!
it's always appropriate to breast feed when you're doing it under a hooter hider...but never at any other time in public if the boob can be seen by anyone other than your hubby and maybe mother and sisters.
i promise never to offend anyone with my boob after i have lovey! you have my word.
don't women understand that even if they are okay with it, most strangers ARE NOT! awkward...
Wow. Puritanical comments! I breast fed 2 kids (both as toddlers! SHOCKING!) and I breastfed everywhere we were(including Disneyland with a walking 18 mo child).....never once in a bathroom, and seldom with a blanket (not that should use a cover, but really it isn't for everyone). Nine times out of ten, I bet not one soul knew I was breastfeeding. IMO the blanket is like a HUGE neon sign that is blinking NURSING! Plus my kids would bat it off exposing me to everyone. I figured out how to be discreet without a cover. I wore my babies in a sling, wore clothes that were convenient to nursing, and worried more about nourishing my child than what others thought. Really though, my kids just looked like they were sleeping on my lap.
This is eating folks. Eating. Are bottles also banned from Sacrament? I hope not! (don't even get me started on the pumping comments.) The mother's room at my ward, is a decent size, but it also has the changing table, sounds great until you are cooped up with 25 poopy diapers. Gross. No thank you. I will sit in the meeting and discreetly feed my baby. Trust me Jesus is fine with it.
Here in Australia the law states that a baby can be breastfed where ever it is legal for that baby to be. So, they can be breastfed pretty well anywhere and it is illegal to ask the mother to move on etc.
This means I have breastfed in many places and most of the time I have felt reasonably comfortable doing this. I have breastfed in church, breastfed while walking around the shops, breastfed while out to dinner with my husbands work collegues, etc.
I can't think of anywhere it is legal for a baby to be that I would have a problem with them being breastfed there.
I do think that some modesty is needed when breastfeeding, but don't feel the need to use blankets to hide, etc. I think that the use of blankets etc is up to individual choice. I think it is quite possible (once you have the hang of it!) to breastfeed without showing too much or creating a scene.
I remember when I was at my cousin's 18th birthday party. My first child was about 6 months old and I had come in to the house to sit on the lounge to breastfeed her where it was a little quiter and warmer. There were many people in the room and an older relative came over to talk to me. After looking at my daughter in my arms said 'oh, isn't that cute! She thinks she is going to get a feed!' The funny thing is that I was actually breastfeeding my daughter at the time, but was doing it in such a way (without fancy feeding tops, shawls or blankets)to breastfeed my daughter without anyone else knowing what was happening.
Oh man...it is totally painful at first! I thing the hooter hiders are fabulous. I'm all about breastfeeding, but I don't have any desire for me, my kids, or my hubby to see someone else's boobage. Keep it covered please!Yuck.
Coming from a breast feeder myself...NO WAY! EW EW EW EW EW! The only time I let others see my goods is when I'm in the mother's room at church cause little Jr. doesn't like a cover. The only people around are women and I warn them that the cover may fly off unbeknownst to me, but beknownst to the little terror sucking on my booby. I would never, ever, ever, ever, ever, whip it out in sacrament meeting or any other place where people other than my husband are present. I even take it to the other room at family parties. I spent way too much time in South America where no one cares. But you know what - I CARE!
I definitely believe modesty applies when you are breast feeding a baby...
(P.S. I don't think breast feeding hurt that bad...just a little sore at first. Now, when he clamps down on my nipple - that hurts like a mother and I try my darndest to not yell out the "F" word.)
I nursed in public quite a bit. You HAVE to. If they baby's hungry, you gotta feed it. That being said, I used a nursing cover (now I make them for my nursing friends) and tried to be discreet.
Breastfeeding doesn't get encouraged as much as it should by the medical community in the country, so I think that nursing in public is a good thing. It's encouraging to other moms who nurse. I do believe in being discreet, though, and I never nursed in church. If M needed to eat during service I would slip out and take her to our church's nursing room. You could see the service, but no one could see you.
As for it being painful, it is. I'm not going to lie. The first few weeks were excruciating. BUT after that was over with, it didn't hurt so much anymore. It's not painful forever, I promise. If it is painful forever, you need to see a lactation consultant because it probably means the baby isn't latching properly.
Having kids is not easy! If your somewhere and they are hungry and screaming you do what you got to do to get them to be quite and with most babies that is a boob in there mouth! If your in public use a blanket or a hider, or if there is a room or a private place you can go absolutely use it. But I had a really hard time nursing and its not an easy thing(at least for me) Dax would fight me and pull the blanket down and squirm... so I think a lot of people got some nice views of my human bottles. Or I would hope that is what people would think of them. A bottle that I am feeding my baby with a total natural thing... I am not trying to flash anyone my sexy swollen stretched out nursing boobs! :)
Yes, please be discreet, yes, modesty applies. You may be totally comfortable and it is a beautiful thing...but you must consider others around you. when I breastfed it was a very private moment between my child and I. I didn't want the whole world watching!
Ask yourself--would you rather have a happy baby or a sad baby? Screaming or content? It's not that big of a deal, people. We are one of the most ridiculous nations when it comes to women's breasts. It is perfectly okay for them to be presented in the media as playthings, but completely inappropriate when they are serving a life-giving function. Give me a break.
i don't think i would ever breast feed in public. but, ive never had to breast feed so i dont really know what great lengths i would go to to keep a crying baby happy again. but seriously, when you see someone breast feeding you can't help but keep looking! its like one of those things that you can't look away & you think to yourself "someone is seriously sucking on your boob right now..."
wierd.
Ditto to what Thorny Tree Lady said.
I'm the nursing nazi...having breast fed two children, for 1 year apiece. Therefore, I have very strong and passionate feelings regarding nursing.
If someone is offended by me feeding my children, they way God designed these children to be fed, oh well. I have breastfed in public--while covered with a blanket, of course. Yes, I believe in modesty. I also believe in courtesy--if you see a breastfeeding mother and it bothers you, LOOK THE OTHER WAY.
p.s. And modesty is relative...what's modest to some would be considered immodest to others, of course. It also goes right out the window just before, during, and after childbirth, when half the hospital sees all of your bits and baubles.
I need to comment again! Derrickadee is SOOOO right about the bathroom thing! People, whatever your opinions on nursing are, don't ever tell those who do to go to the freaking bathroom and nurse! That's possibly the rudest most ignorant thing I've ever heard. When and if you are ever graced with children, I'd LOVE to see how you felt about sitting on a toilet around poop with your baby eating. Do you eat on a toilet? (If you do, yuck). NO!
I've never commented before but I LOVE reading your blog. It is super cute.
I had to post a comment on this topic. I LOVE breastfeeding, but I still think that modesty should apply. I think that in the comfort of your own home, if you want to whip it out then fine, but when you are in church....no. No one should have to see your boobage when we are worshipping the Almighty. That is WHY we have a mothers room. Hello? I have seen some mothers even cover up during sacrament, but really there isn't any need when you can politely excuse yourself and feed your baby in private. My two cents....
I think it is every woman's right to nurse her baby-or not. I didn't get to nurse my 2 1/2 year old because he was premature, but I did pump as long as I could. When I see a mother feeding her baby in public, I am more envious than anything. I wish I could have experienced that with my son. Obviously, I would prefer not to see the boobies of random women, but the way I see it, they are just doing whats best for their baby. How can we be offended by that??
I admit to posting before reading all the comments - so please forgive if I'm redundant.
I don't mind breast feeding in non-holy public spaces -but I don't want to a. hear any slurping (eww, but that can't be helped by the mom, I suppose) or b. see your parts while you are doing it.
That said, I'm certainly not going to say anything to anyone. It's just that for me, slurping and open aired boobage wasn't acceptable. Others should do what's cool for them.
My friend said I should be OK with seeing parts on other gals because it's "natural." My reply was that pooping is also natural, and I don't want to see that, either.
Now Lauren - start a "when should breast feeding stop" topic and see what happens - lol...my friend breast fed so long, we asked her if she was going to have to go on a mission with her son. 0_0
i don't see why a woman doing what heavenly father MADE her body capable of doing (feeding her newborn child) would be considered innapropriate.
i'd think twice before going out in public topless and nursing, but i think mothers have the right to breastfeed wherever and whenever they feel necessary. including sacrament meeting.
also, guys need to start seeing a woman's body in more than just a sexual context. and women need to give men more credit. a mature adult male can handle seeing a woman breastfeed. as an adult, he is perfectly capable of recognizing what is going on, and politely looking away.
I pretty much agree with everyone. I understand if a baby needs to be fed & you have to do it in public, but if you are...be discrete about it & don't flash the world & make it known you are breastfeeding your child. Some people almost look like they are making a scene...like they want people to look. sick. Just use a cute cover of some sort. Church...yeah please go OUT of the chapel to do it. That's just disturbing. There are plenty of other places in the church to do it.
The worst place I've ever seen someone breast feed is not at a pool but in a pool. Ya needless to say I got out. I was seriously disturbed.
I appreciate it when people are private, frankly no one wants to see it and even if you feel like sticking around everyone feels awkward even your mom. No personal experience.
Anytime there are people around I think that you need one of those blankets with the straps for around your neck. Personally I plan to avoid breast feeding in public except for the family. I will sit on those couches in bathroom or mothers room, thank you very much. I definitely don't want to see others do it without a blanket either. But the first time I ever saw someone do it wihtout a blanket I realized it's a culture thing. This was a woman who had only lived in the states for about a year--covering up said valuables isn't so important to them. When a baby is involved they didn't grow up seeing breastfeeding done with cover. But I definitely think that it's very easy to put a blanket or those new kind with the ribbon for around your neck (which my husband calls a bib. ugh, boys) on and be tactful if there are others around.
Someone commented that we should allow breastfeeding in chapels as we allow sippy cups, etc.
In my stake, it's all been banned from the chapel (and we can only drink WATER at parties. Lamespice to the max.) No food or drink of any kind can be in the chapel. Ergo - keep the ta tas in when you come here. he he heeeeee
breastfeeding in public is fine, but you should make an effort to cover up, it's the polite thing to do. I always try to find a more secluded place to feed if at all possible because the yoga act of trying to get a boob out and keep it and the baby's head under a blanket is uncomfortable & sometimes awkward. but sometimes there is no good private place so it is very possible to keep modest under a blanket & feed a baby. although everyone knows what you are doing and if they think about it they might be squeemish, but if that's the case they should stop staring and imagining my boob hanging out, lol. and lauren, I was terrfied of breastfeeding, I disliked anything touching or looking at my boobs before my baby. I honestly didn't think I would be able to do it. but nursing my little girl is wonderful and after the first week or so absolutely NOT painful at all. I just have one suggestion for you when you have a baby, nipple shields, they are amazing & will same you alot of grief and pain. Don't leave the hospital without making them give you some.
I can see why women do get alittle too comfortable whipping a boob out in public though. After having given birth & being so "exposed" you don't feel nearly so worried about alittle boob possibly being seen
Church??? SRSLY?!?
There are some magical places called "Mother Rooms". They are nice little rooms where Mommy and Baby can breast-feed. There's a time and place for everything, and there's a time and place for taking out those boobies.
I'm not LDS (I'm a Methodist, LOL), but we have no mother's room. We have a nursery, but the sermon isn't piped into the nursery. If I was going to spend the whole time in there, I might as well not go to church at all.
As far as I'm concerned, using a blanket is just screaming "LOOK AT ME, I'M NURSING!!" I am currently nursing a 5 month old and have managed to figure out how to nurse without exposing myself and also with NO COVER! Do you see part of my breast? Yes. Do you see any more than you might see when I'm in my swimsuit? No! (And I rock a tankini, no skimpy bikinis here.)
I totally agree with the poster who said it is a sad situation that women are made to feel like breasts are only sexual and they need to hide while feeding their children. God gave us breasts to feed our babies. Let us not forget that Jesus was breastfed! Part of the reason I'm so willing to breastfeed in public is to help people acclimate to it.
I know this is a dated blog - however, I felt the need to respond to this... the only inappropriate place I can think of to feed a little baby would be in a dirty bathroom stall because mom is too concerned about whether she'll offend someone. Would you prefer your lunch in a public bathroom stall - didn't think so... I think we should try and provide a little more positive support to nursing moms when they make the choice to breastfeed their babies. Good topic though!
I don't pump or use bottles, and I do think modesty applies. However, I will not go into a dirty, stinky bathroom to nurse. Would you want to take your lunch in there to eat it?
I am very discreet and will go to the mother's lounge or try to find a chair in an out-of-the-way corner, I use a blanket, etc. I don't want to flash my goodies at everyone. But there is nothing wrong with nursing a baby wherever you are if it's hungry.
I think it's really silly to say to pump if you're going to be in public. That's just setting us back a hundred years or more. I would rather see a woman breastfeeding discreetly than walking around with half of her boobs hanging out provocatively. Funny how society in general has no problem with that, but does with a baby eating.
Oh my goodness! This is a HOT HOT HOT topic. Here's what I think.
There are so many social and cultural difference around the world--we have to be accepting. Latino nations really have no problem nursing uncovered. I don't like to see this, but I think it's really my problem and not theirs.
I nursed and plan on nursing any future children. I, however, completely believe in being discrete! If a private place (dressing rooms are great for this purpose!) is available I was there nursing. But if not, I would ALWAYS be covered. I was just more comfortable that way.
I feel like it's a mother's choice and no one should judge.
I do believe that the breast is best! But, my second child was a terrible nurser so I fed him formula after a valient effort with breast milk.
The reason they have those mother's lounges is so they can hear the meeting going on while feeding their child.. so they should use it. End of story.
I've had this conversation with my sister and sister in laws and they think differently on where feed but they all agree that coverage with at least a blanket is absolutely needed.
I know that with one of my sister in laws she would feed in the open- covered of course- due to her baby blues. Whenever she left the room to feed she'd start feeling the blues even more..
The main thing as that you don't what is comfortable for you but at the same time being considerate to others.
I am not a mom but both of my sisters have 2 kids and both have whipped em out in front of me when I was visiting at their house. It was pretty uncomfortable for me, but I understand a lot better now. A lot of babies don't like to be under the covers and seriously won't eat if they are. I know you can be modest in public and even if you just use the cover until the baby is latched that's okay, as long as I don't see anything.
here's a good article
http://www.cafemom.com/journals/read/1502195/PIOG_Breastfeeding_Offensive
my sister maren and my mom make nursing covers for that reason. it goes around your neck and has an opening so only you can see whats goin on- not the whole world.
im excited to breast feed my kids! its a heck of alot cheaper to nurse then to by that nasty formula.. blehhkk
Dated post but I love the topic. I'm currently nursing my 5 month old boy and, as far as I'm concerned, the world stops for a hungry baby. Should the need arise, I have no problem nursing in church. God blessed women with this ability. If you can, use it.
I cover the baby while he's nursing, however, not because it makes other people uncomfortable, but because I just don't want a bunch of people checking me out while I'm feeding my kid. It is an intimate and personal time regardless of where we are.
Nursing is uncomfortable, and even painful, for the first few days. After that, it's smooth sailing. Cheap, easy, healthy, and beautiful.
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