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A growing number of savvy moms are choosing to breastfeed their babies, and if you are one of them – then kudos to you! Breast milk can provide vital antibodies for your baby that will enhance his quality of health for the rest of his life while the act of breastfeeding itself will allow the two of you to bond in a very special way. Breastfeeding at home is ideal, but let’s face it – the time will arise when you will need to nurse your child while you are out in public. Breastfeeding in public is completely legal – yet there is definitely a stigma attached to it that prevents some women from doing it. But the reality is that you eat in public, so why should you have to run home or hide in your car when baby gets hungry? There are discreet, tactful ways to nurse the baby in public without altering your activities, and without feeling embarrassed or exposed or offending any passersby or those around you. Some ideas: • Use a nursing bib that has mesh at the top so that the baby still gets lots of air; most bibs tie around the neck. Another alternative is to use a big burp cloth; simply lift up your shirt a bit and cover baby with the cloth. A baby blanket can be an efficient way to hide baby and breast as you nurse as well. Wear a tee as opposed to a button up shirt for easier access without the tell-tale buttoning/unbuttoning. • Do not focus your attention on the baby when nursing or people around you will naturally look where you’re looking. In fact, if you do not draw attention to the fact that you are nursing, most people (or perhaps even no one) will know that you are nursing at all. • Look for a cozy corner or private nook when nursing. In restaurants with high-backed booth seating, choose a back booth. If you are shy, finding an out of the way area is best. When shopping, consider ducking into a dressing/fitting room for a session. • Plan for awkward moments. There will be people who stare or who appear to be offended when they realize that you are breastfeeding. Ignoring those people is best – you don’t have to justify your choice to anyone. Problems with Nursing in Public As mentioned earlier, nursing or breastfeeding in public is legal, and for the most part, babies that are nursed are quiet, content, and don’t tend to attract attention. Discreet public nursing is a learned art form, and the key to pulling it off well is to act as if nothing is out of the ordinary when you nurse. However, if you are ever asked to leave a public location because you are breastfeeding or nursing, you should report the situation to the NABA, which is the National Alliance of Breastfeeding Advocacy. A mother’s right to nurse is protected legally and you do not need to explain yourself or your actions to anyone. It’s your choice (and a wise, responsible one at that).
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Carol has been advising mums on the very best baby pushchairs to buy for over 30 years. She welcomes all questions on what to buy and why. So if you want to buy Double Buggies please feel free to ask
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