Breastfeeding your baby is a beautiful thing, but doing it in public can make some new moms feel uneasy at first. With some guidance and practice, plus the right clothing essentials like Hatch nursing bras, nursing on the go can become more comfortable. Let’s look at the steps you can take to get started.
Dress Comfortably and Strategically
The first step to nursing in public is to dress the part. You’ll need to adjust your clothing frequently, so dressing in layers is ideal. The bottom layer should always be able to cover your tummy but still allow easy access to your breasts with a looser top layer that can be moved around as needed.
One essential piece of clothing is a good nursing bra. Hatch nursing bras are designed specifically for breastfeeding moms and have many benefits:
- Comfort: soft, stretchy material for comfortable nursing, sleeping, and going about your day
- Convenience: breasts are more accessible when you most likely have your hands full
- Choice: several options to fit your fashion and lifestyle
- Flexibility: Hatch nursing bras adjust as your body changes
- Stylish: feel more yourself with a bra that is both attractive and practical
Practice Your Positions at Home
Most of the anxiety new moms have about nursing in public comes from feeling exposed. However, you may find that you aren’t showing off as much as you think. Practicing at home in front of a mirror might help you feel more comfortable. If you notice that you are showing a little extra skin when latching on in a particular position, you can adjust how you hold your baby to be more discreet.
Most moms realize that they show much less of their breasts than they thought. You may also want to consider wearing your baby while breastfeeding. Slings can help keep your hands free as you go about your shopping or other errands, and most people would never even suspect you were nursing your baby. Practicing all of your positions with your new Hatch nursing bras will help you feel more comfortable when you start breastfeeding in public.
Choosing Where to Breastfeed in Public
Moms who are new to nursing in public can ease some of their stress by making a plan ahead of time. If you know what’s in the general area, you have a better idea of where you may be able to find a quiet place to feed your baby.
- Think about your route ahead of time. Are there any locations you are more comfortable with? For example, think about stopping at a friend’s house or your baby’s daycare center.
- Stick to your usual spots. Are there any places you have experience nursing? If you already know that your favorite cafe is supportive, why not stop in for brunch.
- Look for new places ahead of time. Check out your favorite map app to scout out a library or quiet cafe. Most lingerie and maternity stores are welcoming, as are children’s stores, or you can also look for a public park or playground, depending on the weather.
Ask for a More Private Location
Sometimes we aren’t able to plan ahead. If the baby is hungry and you’re in a busy location where you feel uncomfortable or if it would be distracting, you can always ask someone if there is a more private location. A restaurant may be able to let you use a quiet booth toward the back for a few minutes, and some places, like airports or shopping malls, may even have feeding rooms.
Use a Blanket or Nursing Cover
If you are uncomfortable when nursing in crowded areas, try using a blanket or a cover designed specifically for nursing. Some babies may not like being covered while feeding, but this may be a better option than not feeding at all if you feel uneasy. Managing a covering can be awkward, especially while holding a baby, making Hatch nursing bras even more convenient.
Know Your Rights and Be Prepared
Unfortunately, it can still be awkward for others when they see a mom nourishing their baby in public. You should know that it is legal for you to do so in all 50 states on both public and private property. If you are ever approached and asked to move, simply stating that you are feeding your baby may be all that’s needed. And be sure to smile at those who look as they walk by. Remember, you are doing something beautiful and selfless for your baby, and some of them might just be genuinely curious!
Hatch nursing bras are designed to make your job of breastfeeding your baby and providing them the nourishment they need a lot easier and more comfortable. With several designs and fabric styles to choose from, there’s one for every step in a nursing mom’s journey. Check out Hatch for underwear, sleepwear, wellness items, and much more.
