Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Breastfeeding, But Didn't Know Who To Ask

Ask Anne...

NURSING IN PUBLIC

Question:

My husband is concerned about my breastfeeding in public. What can I say to him to reassure him that it's ok to do so?

Answer:

As far as your husband's feelings about nursing in public: this is something that the two of you will have to work out between you. Many dads are very uncomfortable with the idea of their wife exposing her breasts to strangers, and that is certainly understandable. I suggest that you practice nursing in front of him (you can use a doll to practice before the baby comes) so that he can critique your technique. Most people who haven't nursed a baby are surprised at how discreet you can be. If you wear a shirt that pulls up from the bottom (not one that unbuttons from the top), then the baby covers part of the breast and the shirt covers the rest. Throwing a blanket over your shoulder completes the coverage, and most people don't even know you're nursing unless they come up close and hear the little slurping sounds or pull the blanket off to get a better look! There is an article on my
website called "Nursing Discreetly" that has more tips on nursing in public.

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The assistance that you receive either on Medela's website via our website is not meant as a substitute for professional guidance from your local health care professional. Please seek help from your local health care professional or IBCLC (1 800 TELL YOU or email to ILCA@erols.com for a local referral to an IBCLC in your area) if you are experiencing problems with breastfeeding or if you have continuing concerns.

Information given can not be construed as medical advice. Please check with your health care provider when making decisions concerning lactation that may impact the health and well-being of you and/or your breastfeeding child. If you are concerned about your breastfeeding situation, or about your health or the health of your child, please call your health care provider immediately. Additionally, please be aware that our lactation consultant tailors her response to a specific situation, taking into account the information shared . Our response may not be appropriate for other mothers, since each mother and baby couple is unique.