People who discourage breastfeeding?

Adia - posted on 09/03/2009 ( 59 moms have responded )

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Have you had anyone try to discourage breastfeeding? Or make you feel uncomfortable? How do you deal with it? What do you say? Some people in my life try to tell me to just put my baby on a bottle or give him formula. I know Im giving my baby the best with breastfeeding but some times I feel uncomfortable around those people. Any Advice?

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Hira - posted on 07/16/2011

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Omg im so sick of my mom she made me stop feeding the first one unfortunately i was living with her as my husband was away...and she would do her best to get me away from my daughter i was only 19 i used to be so heart broken and depressed all the time...but my daughter is very close to me...I am having another baby in october and i want to exclusively BF and pump at work...but my mom has already started nagging..."eww breastmilk sounds disgusting in freezer" and " formula is so much better" "poor people breastfeed" ...the problem is she will watch my baby when i am gone..and my DH is too buzy so i will stay again with my mom for few months...god i cant take her attitude ... seriously if she says one more word i will quit my job and stay home..already going to school having a baby and i work full time... have a 3 year old ...isnt tat enough tention! mothers are impossible!

Rebecca - posted on 09/08/2009

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Usually people are judgemental because they're ignorant on the subject, I say stay with it if its what you want. Either way if your baby is breastfeed or not he'll get what he needs to grow properly, I've done both breast and bottle and my babies are healthy regardless. Do what you want to do for your baby and yourself, hope that helps.

Laura - posted on 09/08/2009

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If you are able to breastfeed, more power to you. Like all unwanted advice, I would just smile and politely ignore. Breastfeeding is tough, but completely worth it- you need support, not criticism! (BTW- good for you!!!)

Ann - posted on 09/07/2009

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I am sorry your having such negative feed back from people. I breastfeed and think it is important to have a support system. I know that it makes somepeople feel uncomfortable, and it shouldn't. You know in your heart it is what is right for you and your baby so nothing else should matter. when people come over especially men they look at me funny when we talk about it. I think it is funny how so many people are so uneducated about things they judge. My rule is always cover up it is something that is personal and just because it is natural doesn't mean everyone needs to be apart of the experience

Jamie - posted on 09/07/2009

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I spout off a bunch of research and it shuts them up fast :)

Joanna - posted on 09/07/2009

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This is so true. I was raised believing that bf'ing is completely normal, but that mommy and baby need to remain hidden while it's occurring. Now that I'm a mommy myself, I am very open about it. Of course I cover up so that others aren't overly uncomfortable, but I am certainly not going to remove myself from the action just it embarrasses others... breast feeding is a beautiful thing, in my opinion. I love that I can take care of my child, and the bonding is amazing.

Skittles - posted on 09/07/2009

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I tend to shut them up with facts. My ex told me to go feel our son in the bathroom and I told him if our son has to eat in the bathroom then thats where I will leave his plate of food cause in my mind its the same thing.I have BF in front of my guy friends and they think its great that I would do the best I can for my babies.The funny part is that I hear more crap from women then i do from men. Most men don't think of it as a sexual thing at all infact most of them look up to me all the more because I am proud that I BF and I don't act ashamed of it. Its a wonderful thing.



I have had family tell me to bottle feed because its easier.Um whats easier about it. I grab my baby and put them to my breast,vs. bet up find the bottle measure the formula measure the water make sure its the right temp, shake it till theres no lumps and them go back to my baby and then finally get to feel them. Not to mention I don't have to worry about running out in the middle of the night lol. Now remind me wheres the easier part lol I know I'm mouthy but that me and my family knows if they make the comment be prepared for me to let them know my end on it.

Ulrike - posted on 09/07/2009

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Quoting Lisa:

I haven't had anyone tell me to bottle feed, but I have had lots tell me that I should cover while nursing my baby in public, or even tell me I shouldn't nurse in public at all.

In my opinion, that attitude is just as damaging, because it instills in women that milk comes from a dirty area of a woman's body that needs to be hid from sight. Luckily, I'm very confident in my body's ability to nourish and comfort my child, and I really don't give a hoot what those people think.


The best advice we got was from our midwefe at ante-natal when asked about feeding in restaurants. She said, "what's the problem, everybody else is eating!" As far as i'm concerned it's the most natural thing in the world.  I do choose to not breastfeed in front of some of my (male) friends as i know it would make them uncomfortable.

Tracy - posted on 09/07/2009

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yes, all the time. I (being me) usually just tell them to shut up, and mind their own business. You need to stand up for yourself and your baby!
Good Luck!

Melissa - posted on 09/07/2009

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If it is a stranger, just remind them that was what breast were created for, not for men to ogle at, but to nourish a baby, that usually shuts them up!! haha

If it is family/friend, just tell them you are glad they got to make their own parenting choices, and you would appreciate it if you were allowed to do the same!

Heather - posted on 09/07/2009

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look up the dangers and affects formula feeding can cause to a child.....also look up the benefits of breastfeeding....print these papers out (make sure they are ligitamite of course). Next time someone thinks they know whats best for YOUR child...politely give them a copy of those papers and ask them to read them before giving their opinion. Also make sure they realize that this is YOUR choice and YOUR choice only. I wish more people would realize that "fake" milk is not BEST for children. Yes its EASIER to bottle feed but its not BETTER. Im glad you are standing up for yourself. You shouldnt feel uncomfortable....you are making the most important decision in your childs life to breastfeed. Good for you!!!

Angela - posted on 09/07/2009

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On a side note. I found that when I was uncomfortable in any nursing situation my son just didn't get satiated during that feed and I would have to feed him more frequently while out or in the uncomfortable situation (shopping, swim practice, outdoor wedding etc... I recommend a nursing cover, I used a hooter hider (brand name). It helped me relax more and him get a good fill! It doesn't work too well once they are older, but it was a life saver for me when he was young. I nursed him til 2 years despite the stigma attached to that. You got a lot of great advice here, especially love "use the opportunity to educate them".

Danaë - posted on 09/07/2009

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just tell them you DO love your child and that's why you want the best for them. Also that formula has an ingridient also found in jet fuel. So why the hell would you want your child to eat that. Also I found that the best way to deal with it is to make them uncomfortable... Breastfeed infront of them as much as possible!! lol people usually get he pick after you do that a couple of time. KEEP STRONG!! to me not breastfeeding is like not vaccinating your children.

Narelle - posted on 09/07/2009

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My baby is 3 months old and ive tried giving hre a bottle wit just water but she wont take it. AS long as your happy with your baby on the breast then thats all that matters. just tell those who discouge breastfeeding that you appricate there opinions but your the babies mother and will motehr the way you feel is best for your baby

Brenda - posted on 09/06/2009

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Tell them your body, your choice. It is quite frankly none of their business if you breastfeed or if you bottle feed.



But I agree with the others. If they aren't going to listen, tell them you won't be around, and neither will the baby.

Fuchsia - posted on 09/06/2009

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I haven't had anyone question me about it, but if they did I would proably ignore them as I know I am doing what is best for my babe.

Georgia - posted on 09/06/2009

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Adia, There are some very ignorant people out there (including plenty of healthcare professionals). You are doing what is natural and what is best for your baby. Keep up the great work!
I love all the different responses and I just wish someone had tried making a comment to me. I have never had anyone say anything to me. Well, once I had a little boy (about 3-4) come up to me while I was feeding my son on a bench in the shopping centre and he just stood there watching. It was as though he was trying to figure out what I was doing. His mother caught up with him and just said, "leave them alone, the baby is eating." That was it!
In my experience, breastfeeding DOES make for healthier kids. My son is 2 1/2 and rarely gets sick. I know kids the same age who have been sick twice as often. He's been in daycare 2 days a week for a few months now and has had a couple colds and an ear infection, but that's been it so far. That's a great reason to breastfeed.
Good luck and ignore the ignorance (unless you're feeling feisty, then give them a serve!)

Latoya - posted on 09/06/2009

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There are ppl in my life that are doing the same thing mainly b/c they want to watch him and they think it'll be impossible if his breastfeeding. But I just ignore them some ppl are going to comment and its not their place to thats your baby you know whats best for him so dont worry bout what other ppl say. It's much healthier for your baby and they wont be the ones in the hospital with you if he gets sick.

Swanissha - posted on 09/06/2009

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I breastfeed and your right it's the best for your baby so do it. If thats what you what dont worry bout them who dont like it cause at the end of the day your baby will be healthy and also it saves money. It's going to all pay off

Adia - posted on 09/06/2009

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Thanks for all the support on this topic! You all sound like Great mommies! Im very encouraged!

Stina - posted on 09/06/2009

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I was out and about one day with my 3 children. We take the bus a lot and while I don't usually do this, my infant was hungry as we needed to get on the bus so I sat between my two other children and discreetly fed my baby. The seats face toward the front of the bus so I didn't feel very exposed. Still, I swear I heard some young guys behind me make remarks. I specifically heard the word "Ghetto"

I ignore looks and remarks- although this instance was particularily memorable. On this day, I just told myself, they'd be less happy if my child was screaming for the duration of the bus ride.

Since my dd refuses bottles, I somtimes get looks of shock when well meaning people offer to give her a bottle at church so I don't need to worry about her... and I explain that she won't take one. But they don't come across as disaproving... they just want to help.

Personally, I am shocked by mom's who bottle feed... especially very very new babies.

Mattee - posted on 09/06/2009

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My boss and one of my co-workers did. They said "The thought of a baby sucking on me just makes me sick". I couldn't believe it!!! It hasn't changed my opionion about it and I still plan on breastfeeding. It's PERFECTLY NATURAL so I don't think anyone should change how you feel about it.

Kimberly - posted on 09/06/2009

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i think people have lost sight of why we are mammals and why women have breasts. we have breasts because we are meant to breastfeed, the are not objects of sex. i am a biology major and many of the reasons as to why we are mammals is the fact that we have breasts that lactate and feed our young. people are so ignorant is their thoughts about breastfeeding. I nurse in public and i dont care.

Michele - posted on 09/06/2009

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Ignore them or if they are really persistent tell them to shut up and respect your wishes. You are doing the best for your child don't let anyone make you feel differently. If you are uncomfortable when you breastfeed don't go to those places, or pump and take milk with you. Yo would be surprised if you ask many stores and restuants are very accomidating.

Anna - posted on 09/06/2009

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I'd tell them to mind their own business. If they think there's something dirty about a mother feeding her child, they just have dirty minds. People are so crazy. Congrats for sticking with it despite the lack of support.

Meikjn - posted on 09/05/2009

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try to find people who can give you support and perspective. I found that the people who were wierd about it to me fell into one of 2 categories: eather they grew up in the generations when it was discouraged to breastfeed, because the doctors thought they had found a better way, or defensive mothers who failed in their own attempts to breastfeed, so they decide they are going to teach everyone that what they did is ok.

Terri - posted on 09/05/2009

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Quoting Sara:

Here are other good comebacks, not listed above:
I'm trying to reduce:
... my chance of getting breast cancer! (or ovarian)
... my chance of getting post-partum depression!
... my chance of getting anemia!
... my liklihood of osteoporosis!
... my baby's chance of obesity in later life!
... our chances of getting diabetes!
I decided formula is too expensive and time consuming for no added benefits.
I'm saving the country on heathcare costs for me and my child!
I'm saving the environment by not using formula cans and bottles!
I'm trying to loose baby weight!
Oh, you mean "why am I not feeding my baby artificially?"
http://www.llli.org/NB/NBJulAug01p124.ht...

Good for you, momma! Keep it up. Isn't it wonderful? I had no idea how awesome it would be!


those are GREAT!!!!!!!!!! lol

Terri - posted on 09/05/2009

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yes... i had someone tell me "oh my god! how embarising it must be for you to do that right here in front of people!" mind you i was at my MOTHERS house, at a family picnic, I said "why would i be embarresed? im feeding my child. Its YOU who are uncomfortable with the human body.. not me!" boooo yaaaaaaa.. lol. and you ARE doing the best for your baby, keep it up! and dont let anyone tell you you cant because the supreme court of the usa says you can do it wherever you are lawfully aloud to be. covered or uncovered!

Victoria - posted on 09/05/2009

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Other people should have to deal with their hang ups about breast feeding and not you. You are doing a fantastc thing for you child and they should respect that it is your choice. I am still feeding my son at 9 months can plan to carry on doing so, it is a very special bond between mother and baby so just be proud, hold your head high and ignore those narrow minded people around you.

Coti - posted on 09/05/2009

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My babies have a hard time gaining weight, even though they are fantastic eaters. Their dad is sooo skinny, so the boys must have his genes! The doctors are always comparing my children to "normal weight charts" instead of what is normal for MY children. I made the mistake with my first son of putting him on formula at the advice of our pediatrician, due to low weight gain. It made no difference! He is almost 5 and weighs #32. Now with baby #2, I tell the pediatrician to take a hike! Breastfeeding is something I am fully committed to. Seems like every time something goes wrong, doctors' first solution is formula. WIC is very supportive of breastfeeding. La Leche League has helped with all of the problems that come up. They are fantastic support! I also owe much gratitude to my work, which supports me nursing. Do what you can do for as long as you can handle breastfeeding. Pump as much as possible, even when you're tired and even after you have fed baby. Fenugreek is a great natural herb that has been used for centuries to increase milk supply. Invest in a good, cute nursing cover that makes you feel confident while nursing in public. It's also very helpful and encouraging to have friends that breastfeed.

Victoria - posted on 09/05/2009

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I say do what feels best for you and your baby..Let them talk but never guess yourself only you know what's best for you and your baby!!!

Melissa - posted on 09/05/2009

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hi aida, i'm breastfeed my 18 mth old once a day generally near bedtime. i must admit i have been quite tunnel visioned about my choice to feed. i just take the "its my baby, my choice" line. i wouldn't even debate the issue with anyone as it really is no one's business but your own. remind people of that if you have someone who is on at you, as they may not realise how offensive it is. steer clear of negative people if you can and find someone who is supportive say other likeminded mums or a health professional. i know I wouldn't have fed my bub as long as i have without my local clinic nurse who i dropped in to see every few months. she is awesome! breastfeeding is pretty full on to start with but does get easier as they drop feeds. hope things work out. good luck.

Kristi - posted on 09/05/2009

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Try not to let other's body hangups interfere with you doing what you know is right. I see no reason NOT to bf if you can. (I've had a few friends that couldn't for various reasons. But they all at LEAST tried.) I pretty much tended to ignore the negativity when I nursed my oldest and plan on doing that again with my youngest when he's born.



If the education you give those close to you doesn't cause them to drop the issue, tell them they can feed their infants however they like. As you are your child's mother, it's your right and responsibility to do what you think is best.



No matter what, know that we here support you, and if you need extra support check out La Leche League at llli.org and talk to your doctor and your child's pediatrician for other bf support groups in your area. Keep up the good work and just stand firm. ^_^

Meredith - posted on 09/05/2009

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Overall, I have had a very positive breastfeeding experience. I have been breastfeeding my daughter for 15 months and no one has ever made a negative comment when I fed my daughter in public. Now that my daughter is over a year though, I am starting to get more comments. My doctor keeps asking me how long I am gong to breastfeed every time I see him and thinks that babies only benefit from it the first 6 months. I referred him to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the WHO statements on breastfeeding. Also my dad has said "if they are old enough to ask for it then they are to old to breastfeed" a couple of times but I just deflect it with humor saying something like "well I am only going to breastfeed her until she goes to high school." Some people just don't know the facts and are open to new information and in that case knowing a few facts is helpful. I wouldn't waste my time with people who are uneducated about the topic and have no interest in seeing things from a different perspective. In my experience talking with such people ends up being a waste of time usually.

Melissa - posted on 09/04/2009

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When my twins were first born, my husband's mother and sister encouraged me to use formula, claiming my babies were hungry, not getting enough to eat, and it would help them sleep through the night. At first I just ignored them, but after I found out the overfed one of my then six-week-old babies, I started to get a bit snippy. I just very firmly informed them that they were gaining more than enough weight, weighing in the 80th percentile for newborns, and that I didn't mind waking up to nurse them in the middle of the night. Since I'd never snapped at them before, they knew right away that I was upset and haven't questioned it since.

I also don't discuss breastfeeding with anyone who isn't supportive!

Umme Aaiman - posted on 09/04/2009

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Ignore such people and carry on the good work. Breastfeeding is the best thing you can do for your baby. It's literally the best gift you can give him/her. A strong immunity system, lesser exposure to health risks, better IQ.. many of people told me my milk wasn't of a good quality since my baby wasn't putting on as much as weight as her peers. Though, her weight gain was normal, as per my pediatrician.
It bothered me so much about whether my milk was indeed not good enough. Then I learned, understood, and started believing that a breastfeeding is indeed a boon. It was just that no matter how much my little one takes in, she puts on about 600 gms on an average per month.

As for how you feel while doing it, this is the most natural thing in the world. And the most amazing. Don't bother how other's look at you and enjoy the bond breastfeeding establishes between you and your baby. The satisfied look, the milky mouth, the tiny little burp...

Christi - posted on 09/04/2009

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i have the same problem with MY mother. she thinks it's gross and unnatural! every day i hear it from her. i've been trying to educate her on the subject and then i ignore her. i did listen to her when my baby was born and i regret it! she was telling me that my baby was hungry he wasn't getting enough to eat. so we gave him the bottle to, then i couldn't keep up with the little guy. i was able to get him off of the bottle when he was four months but he was so used to the formula he was always hungry. but, i am proud to announce that my son is still receiving breast milk he is eight months now! despite every protest of my mother! good luck!

Sara - posted on 09/04/2009

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Here are other good comebacks, not listed above:

I'm trying to reduce:

... my chance of getting breast cancer! (or ovarian)

... my chance of getting post-partum depression!

... my chance of getting anemia!

... my liklihood of osteoporosis!

... my baby's chance of obesity in later life!

... our chances of getting diabetes!

I decided formula is too expensive and time consuming for no added benefits.

I'm saving the country on heathcare costs for me and my child!

I'm saving the environment by not using formula cans and bottles!

I'm trying to loose baby weight!

Oh, you mean "why am I not feeding my baby artificially?"

http://www.llli.org/NB/NBJulAug01p124.ht...



Good for you, momma! Keep it up. Isn't it wonderful? I had no idea how awesome it would be!

Amanda - posted on 09/04/2009

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my sister in law and mother in law are not supporrtive at all, I ignore them, heck I ignore them most of the time anyway LOL.

My sister in one year away from being an RN. and this semester of classes is focusing on babies, I told her that I would be interested in what her Prof. says about nursing, she got all snotty for some reason and said, "well she has five kids so I am sure that she will be all about breasfeeding" so my husband speaks up and says "why? just because she has more kids than usuall?" I dont know why my sister acted that way I was just interested in finding out what nursing students are being taught.

I try to find a happy medium, I do cover up in public most of the time, for a few reasons, I dont want people looking at me, I cover up when I am at work, I work in a nursery, the reason I cover there is because I work with young kids [6wks to 7 years] and I feel that it is a parents place to explain [or not] to their child what is going on, so when I bring out my cover I just tell the kids that the baby is going to sleep, which is true since he falls asleep anyway, if that childs parent chooses to explain to them what is going on then that is their choice. They know their child better than I do, some kids are more mature than others, each childs parent knows their child better than I do and knows what they can and cant understand.

Jenni - posted on 09/04/2009

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Same thing has happened with me. Depending on who they are in my life I either just stay quiet and smile politely at their advice because it's not worth it or I try to educate them on why I chose to breastfeed and the benefits it has on both my baby AND me!!

Jessica - posted on 09/04/2009

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You tell them that this is YOUR baby and YOUR choice and it's working. I would figure out what they have a problem with, is it your baby nursing AROUND them, the THOUGHT of breastfeeding, maybe it's another mom friend who is bottle feeding and they're envious of your ability to nurse (or they see it as gross... who knows). I would recommend asking these people for a specific reason they think you should bottle feed. You then simply put your foot down and explain your reasons for nursing and tell them that you would like more support from them. If they cannot support you, perhaps it's time to spend a little less time with them, and a little more time with other nursing moms in your area. Call La Leche League for a support group - even a phone one helps!



My girlfriend's hubby is completely uncomfortable with nursing. His opinion is that I should be in a dark closet somewhere while I nurse. I told him when I first went to their house after my daughter was born that I was nursing, I was going to sit on their couch, I would be covered up - not hanging out all over, and if he didn't like it he could leave the room. He has come around... a little. They are now expecting their first, and my girlfriend is too shy to consider breastfeeding (she won't even wear SHORTS so I know she can't be encouraged to nurse, maybe to TRY it....).



Sorry... I ramble... my basic point... if they can't support you (and you've specifically ASKED them to be supportive of you) then perhaps they don't need to see you as often. Try La Leche League for support. You can do it!

Kat - posted on 09/04/2009

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No one is game to say anything to me or around me; which I am grateful that they are too scared to speak their minds. I believe that if they have an issue with you breastfeeding, it's not about you it's about them. Your doing this really good thing for your child. It is the best possible thing you can do in regards to feeding your child. This I think makes them feel insecure about themselves & the choices they made. They are going on the attack as a form of defence. By you being pro-breastfeeding they assume/think you could possibly be making judgement on them for not bf. When really you probably couldn't care less what other people do, you just want to mind your own business, feed your child & do the very best you can for your child.
That's my theory on it....

Anneke - posted on 09/04/2009

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what did people do before forumla milk! must have been the breast. but it seems unacceptable now as poeple have started to see breasts for sexual objects. Mine are not that, they are utensils for feeding baby. My child is coming on in leaps and bounds and way ahead of others, he is bright, smart and big and strong. Poeple always ask why and look puzzled, then i just say he is breastfed. My mum is with me on it, she maintains there is something about breastfeeding that makes a baby happier. My baby has been vomited about 3 times since he was born ( I ate spicy stuff) and hasnt got colic and sleeps all night ? if thats what breastfeeding does then so be it.

Mandy - posted on 09/04/2009

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i have been told that my son suffers seperation anxiety (pretty badly) because he is breast fed and not left to cry it out when sleep tiome comes.



i tell those people he is my son and my hubby agrees with me.



just remember breast is best.

Hayley - posted on 09/04/2009

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Hi Adia, well done for not feeling too intimidated by the negativity around your breastfeeding. I have a 6 month old son and I intend to continue breastfeeding him for as long as he wants it. When I first started feeding in public, I felt a little uncomfortable, and so I make a point not to make eye contact with strangers while I'm feeding. That way, if I can't see their looks of disapproval, they can't affect me. I also dealt with some inappropriate comments over the last few months. I was at a friends birthday dinner and while I was feeding, one of the men (whom I hardly knew) said "Oooh save some for me! I'm next!" I was pretty embarrassed, but just laughed it off.

Breastfeeding is without doubt the best thing you can do for your baby. Whenever anyone talks to me about formula, I always say that by law, cigarette companies must put health warnings on their packs. Similarly, by law (at least, it is in Australia) formula manufacturers must put health warnings on their tins admitting that formula is not as good as breastmilk for babies. That usually shuts them up! :-)

Lisa - posted on 09/04/2009

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Go to your nearest W.I.C. office or health department and they will give you a card for your wallet that says it is your constitutional right to breastfeed your baby in a public place and in fact a public establishment can be fined for harrassing you if you do.

D.Denise - posted on 09/03/2009

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Wow, I know how you feel. This is the absolute best thing you can give your child. First, you're HOLDING them close to you, so they feel you nurturing them. Second, you're giving them the highest grade milk that specifically suited to them. Third, your nursing them is good for you and THEM! Fourth, it's FREE! It's discouraging to hear people try to make you feel uncomfortable, but STICK TO YOUR GUNS and don't let them belittle you or make you feel bad. YOU know what's best for your child. Sadly, a lot of people from other generations were raised to bottle feed ONLY, so it's their misinformation that is promoting this kind of negativity. When someone comes up and says something negative, smile and ask them why they feel it's important to tell you that? Do THEY feel uncomfortable seeing you nurse? That's too bad, must have a hang up about it. I know it's hard to be straight faced about talking back to them when you feel insulted and discouraged, but actually, it's NONE of ttheir business and it's not an insult to remind them of that fact! :)

Erin - posted on 09/03/2009

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Those people will always have something to say. Next it will be commentary on what you are doing to get him to sleep. Don't worry about them... most of them might just feel bad that they never tryed it. I was told infront of a large group at a wedding, "Everyone knows you stop breastfeeding after 3 months." 20 people turned and stared and I said, "Actually Doctors recommend breastfeeding for the first 1 -2 YEARS." Or hey you could always be funny about it and be like, I am uncomfortable with you talking about my boobs.
When I am in public I do use the Hooter hider. Its nice breathable and I can see my daughter.

Erynne - posted on 09/03/2009

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Honey, you are doing the absolute best thing for your baby by breastfeeding, and don't let anyone tell you any differently.

Breastfeeding went out of vogue when formula was invented because you had to have a considerable amount of money to afford formula back then, so breastfeeding mothers were considered 'low class.' Not so today!

Research has proven that breast truly is best. Not only is it completely digestable, it also doesn't contain anything harmful for you baby - NOT the case with formula! Just look at the recent melamine scandal in China.

For people who get offended when I breastfeed in public (discreetly, of course - no need to pop the entire breast out for the world to see) I ask them, "If this offends you, how can you stand to walk by the magazines at check stands?" There's more T&A on the majority of the magazines than they can see around my shirt and the baby's head.

Besides, breastfeeding helps you bond so much closer with your baby, IMO. When I'm snuggled up next to Jacob and he's sucking contentedly at my breast, it makes me feel wonderful for being able to produce something so good for him. It's already the perfect temperature, has the perfect nutrients, and not only does my breast give him food, it doubles as a snugglie when he needs comfort or help falling asleep. Really, what's not to love? :)

- E