My baby won’t take a bottle very well and I had to breastfeed him in public last week. He did great and I felt empowered being able to feed him any time he needed. But now I feel the need to cover up because the two people I was with were uncomfortable and wanted me to go in the bathroom. What can I say if someone feels uncomfortable? I was just feeding my son!
That is a great start! You were just feeding your son! Many mothers are uncomfortable breastfeeding in public due to what others might think or say, while other mothers are comfortable feeding their baby in public without a cover. The key to remember is that you have the right to feed however is most comfortable for you and your baby.
Not all babies enjoy being covered while breastfeeding, but if you know you will feel better with a cover, practice covering at home so your baby becomes used to it. If you don’t feel the need to cover but want partial coverage, the two-shirt method, wearing a tank top with a shirt over top, works great. When your baby is ready to eat just pull down your bra and tank top for your baby then pull up your shirt over the top portion of your breast.
The bottom line is you have the right to breastfeed in public with or without a cover. It is against the law for anyone to harass you while feeding your baby. Exercise your rights and do what is best for you and your baby!
SOURCES:
https://wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov/your-breastfeeding-rights
https://www.medela.com/breastfeeding/mums-journey/breastfeeding-in-public