There seems to be a lot of talk about breastfeeding lately, especially in public. As you know, Abbie was mostly breastfed for the first 6 months, and we’re now on formula. While I’m so glad I breastfed, I believe that each mother should make the decision that’s right for her family. If that means, breastfeeding, great! If that means formula, awesome! After my experience, I know that either way to feed your child works – Abbie is doing just as well on formula (and now solids) as she did on breast milk.
That being said, all this nonsense about people being offended by nursing in public? It’s just that – NONSENSE. If you don’t want to see it, then don’t look! There’s nothing vulgar about a mother feeding her child. You see it that way? Well, that’s your issue, not the mother’s.
At the same time, I was always self-conscious as a breastfeeding mom, so when I was in public? I covered up. While I know I had the legal right to breastfeed anywhere I needed to, I didn’t feel the need to advertise it to the world. I think a little discretion just makes it easier for everyone.
A lot of bloggers I have addressed this issue, so rather than re-hash all my own feelings here, I wanted to share a few of the posts that have resonated with me lately. We need to continue to support all mothers in however they choose to feed their children. As long as the child is happy and healthy, it’s really no one else’s business.
The following posts address this topic from different angles, but all of their thoughts are important to consider. Every mother’s experience is different, just as each child is different. It all boils down to one thing: respect one another.
Becky at From Mrs. to Mama
AP at I Love You More Than Carrots
