WHAT SHOULD I WEAR SO THAT I CAN BREAST FEED MY BABY OUTSIDE?

A few wardrobe items will make breastfeeding on-the-go easier. It is worthwhile to invest in at least one high-quality nursing bra to wear under your clothes when you go out. These bras are sized to fit a mother’s body, easily unsnap for feedings, and won’t constrict the circulation around your breasts.

Besides a nursing bra, wearing a shirt designed for breastfeeding facilitates discreet breastfeeding. Nursing shirts have built-in snaps or flaps that allow you access to your breasts without lifting up or unbuttoning your shirt and exposing your torso. Before venturing out with your baby, practice breastfeeding at home in various clothing styles. Wearing what works for you will give you the confidence to breastfeed your baby in any environment. I have seen mothers attempt to conceal the fact that they are breastfeeding by draping a huge blanket over themselves and their baby. Hardly inconspicuous, these nursing curtains draw attention in the mother’s direction.

The easiest way of all to travel with and breastfeed your baby in public is to carry your baby in a sling. Instead of carrying your baby around in a detachable car seat, leave the seat in the car and hold your baby in a sling. Being held close to your body will keep your baby calm, and your hands will be free during your errands. As you walk around a store, your baby will be comforted by the familiar sound and feel of your heartbeat. The rhythm and movement of your body is reminiscent of the way you carried your baby during pregnancy. A sling is versatile; it can be used to hold your baby in many different ways. Best of all, you can position your baby for discreet breastfeeding.

Sling carrying takes practice. After showing my clients how to position their baby, I recommend that they practice around the house and use the sling to take a walk around the neighborhood. If you are unable to master the sling, then try holding your baby in a front pack. While less versatile than a sling, front carriers keep your baby close to you and are better than constantly toting your baby around in a car seat. Of course your baby still needs to be in an appropriate car seat while riding in the car.