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I nursed both of my kids, and I did it in public quite frequently. In the beginning I was terrified to do it, but since I didn’t even bother with bottles then unless I wanted to be a shut-in I knew that eventually I would have to feed my baby while out and about. The first time I did it was almost comical. I remember it quite vividly…it was at the mall and my daughter was six weeks old. My husband and I took her to get some portraits done, and since we had to wait an hour for the prints I was prepared to try nursing her for the very first time in public. I brought a full-size blanket…yes, full-size…and draped it over both her and me, making a veritable tent. This all happened on a bench outside the portrait studio because I was so nervous I didn’t even think to head into a restroom or dressing room. No, that would have been too simple.

I was terrified. Luckily my daughter latched on like a champ, and even though I was probably shaking we managed through the venture splendidly. There was no stopping me after that, and I quickly lost the blanket and stopped caring what people thought. I’ve nursed on a plane, while eating at a restaurant, while watching monkeys at the zoo, and even while plopped down next to the ice cream freezer at the grocery store. Hey, when your baby wants to eat, what else can you do?

The bit of advice I would like to offer those of you who are contemplating nursing your baby in public is this: Let me assure you that not many people take notice at all. For the few disapproving glances I caught from strangers, there were plenty of people who either smiled or just ignored me. It’s not like I live in a liberal community either; I live smack in the Midwest and there aren’t many women like me who would nurse a baby anywhere, anytime. Just know that if you’re wondering what it’s like to breastfeed in public, it’s really not that bad at all. You should also know that if you aren’t quite as extroverted as I am then you’ll be amazed at how eagerly stores will grant you access to dressing rooms, executives will give up their offices, and doctors will allow you extra time in an exam room to feed your baby if you just ask.

Tags: Breastfeeding, newborns, nursing