Feeding in Public…

Posted by: Sharmila Rajah, 27-Nov-2007

 

Breastfeeding that is. Up till now, I’ve nursed at Starbucks, several restaurants and shopping malls. Most around me have received it well. Some, however, don’t quite know what to make of it. But all this time, I’ve seen only one or two other mothers feeding their babies in public.

 

Could it be because most are fearful of exposing too much skin and being reprimanded for doing so? A mother nursing her baby should not attract any more attention than a mother bottle-feeding her infant. After all, a mother breastfeeding her baby is only doing what comes naturally.

 

Being able to nurse in public, has given me the freedom to move outside the home. With practice, I’ve grown more comfortable nursing in public. I’m equipped with a large bib-like feeding shawl that ensures there are no mishaps. Wearing a sling, with baby in it, can also be used to feed. Or draping a blanket/ napkin over your shoulder can be another option in helping in the process.

 

Your sense of fashion does not have to suffer when nursing. Luckily, contemporary fashion is quite accommodating to the breastfeeding mum. Tube tops, tube dresses, bat-wing dresses and halter dresses can all aid a breastfeeding mum in her pursuits of satisfying her baby’s appetite for milk and her own appetite for style.

 

A practical option, though pricey, is the nursing top, designed with hidden flaps to facilitate discreet nursing. Dark colours and patterned fabric tend to hide leak stains better than silks and whites. Nursing pads are also a must to soak up those leaks and sprays.

 

The most baby-friendly place is The Curve/ Ikano Power Center, both of which have set aside special changing and feeding rooms. These are very tastefully done and are perfect for mothers who prefer nursing without a crowd.