Normalizing Breastfeeding in Public Spaces: A Guide for Moms on the Go

The decision to breastfeed is a deeply personal one, and while a natural component of feeding a baby, breastfeeding in public can come with many unnecessary barriers for mothers. Cultural perceptions about the act of breastfeeding create limiting options for moms on the go who are balancing both their professional and personal lives — almost as if to suggest that women cannot be mothers and be ambitious.

The reality is that we live in a world of working mothers who disrupt the status quo each and every day. That being said, it’s time that mothers are able to tend to the needs of their babies anytime and anywhere without facing guilt or shame. Breastfeeding in public spaces shouldn't be something moms are put down for.

Moms are often forced to choose between their professional lives and personal ones because society rarely provides settings for them to thrive within both realms. It’s enough that many are often expected to sacrifice their careers in order to raise their children, so adding on the negative societal perspectives of breastfeeding in public poses a deeper challenge for moms on the go.

Enough with the staring glances that give looks of judgment and disapproval when a mother is breastfeeding in public settings. We are mothers around the clock — and sometimes that’ll come with having to feed our babies while in professional spaces, while at a restaurant, or while anywhere in public. Breastfeeding doesn’t have to be limited to the confines of private spaces, and moms on the go should feel empowered to do what they need to do when and where they need to do it.

For moms on the go, it’s necessary to reframe your approach and block out the negative perceptions about breastfeeding in public.

Know Your Rights

In the United States, all 50 states along with Washington D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, a parent's right to breastfeed in public or private settings is protected. So you're not breaking any laws by nourishing your child out in public.

Wear Comfortable Nursing Clothing

Having the right nursing clothing for breastfeeding in public can make a huge difference. Our Maternity Nursing Bras are a good option for a seamless and accessible breastfeeding experience, especially when on the go.

Have accessories

Nursing covers or baby carriers are great when it comes to breastfeeding in public while still being discreet. If you’ll be pumping, having a good portable breast pump can be life-changing. Our J35 Wearable Breast Pump covers all your pumping needs for on the go.

Choose a secluded area (if possible)

If you face some personal hesitancy or discomfort about breastfeeding in public settings, you can try to find a secluded area. Some public spaces also have private nursing rooms that are accessible to moms on the go.

Stay hydrated

You’re a busy mama, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting the hydration you need in order to maintain your milk supply. Carry a water bottle with you, like our Fruit Infusion Water Bottle.

You’re balancing motherhood and ambition — you have a lot to be proud of! Don’t allow negative perceptions about breastfeeding in public get to you. When your baby needs to eat, they need to eat. It’s the same for adults, and nobody tells them to wait until they get home before eating. Your baby has a right to access their food whenever and wherever.

There are many ways to gain confidence when it comes to breastfeeding in public:

• Have a support person with you, like a friend or a spouse.

• Talk to other moms about their experiences and what helps make breastfeeding in public easy for them. Finding a local breastfeeding group could be helpful.

• Practice different nursing positions at home in order to get comfortable for when you’re breastfeeding on the go.

• Focus on the needs of your baby, not the opinion of strangers.

• Just go for it! The more you do it, the more comfortable you'll grow with breastfeeding in public.

At the end of the day, breastfeeding in public shouldn’t be a daunting task, and balancing motherhood and ambitions shouldn’t feel like something you have to choose between. 

Existing Protections 

As previously stated, all 50 states in the U.S. along with Washington D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, protect a parent's right to breastfeed in public or private settings. However, this doesn't mean workplaces or public spaces truly honor and support breastfeeding mothers in the way they need it. Employers may also lack the awareness of this policy, so it's important for breastfeeding mothers to know how to advocate for their rights in the workplace.

Why Policies Are Important For Working Moms

Working moms are already disproportionately affected by lack of support, such as inadequate parental leave and childcare affordability. Policies are a way to make sure working mothers don't have to choose between raising their kids or thriving in their professional lives. At the end of the day, mothers should be supported to and encouraged in balancing both work and motherhood.

How Moms Can Create Change

Whether you believe it or not, there is power in mothers using their voices and sharing their stories. Moms are equipped to influence a change in our policies and systems. By joining together and advocating for their rights, they can continue to push for change one step at a time. Moms can join advocacy groups like the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee to help create a inclusive workspaces.

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