The Issue of Breastfeeding in Public Spaces in America

Breastfeeding in Public

Breastfeeding is a naturally occurring event which has been happening since the beginning of time. Millions of women around the world breastfeed and do not give it a second thought. Breastfeeding, although the most natural and healthy method of feeding, has recently come under attack by a vocal group of hypocritical opponents. This issue has escalated to such a point that mothers trying to nurse their babies have been harassed, hounded and publicly humiliated. Given the vast scientific knowledge demonstrating the significant health risk to those babies not fortunate enough to be breastfed, one would wonder why more women are not encouraged to breastfeed. Mothers getting negative comments and nasty looks when breastfeeding in public. This is sad. When someone sees a nursing ANIMAL they will say, “oh, how cute!” Shouldn’t a nursing baby get the same reaction (if any at all)? Besides, a nursing baby should be much more welcome than a screaming baby who needs to eat. The cartoonist implies that the women who are using their bodies to market products are more offensive than the woman who is feeding her baby with hers.

Almost daily women are asked to leave public places or cover up as they are feeding their children because someone believes it is indecent or perverted, despite the efforts that have been made to promote breastfeeding as positive. Breastfeeding is not indecent or perverted; however, many individuals think it should be hidden and out of the public eye. It is a woman’s right to breastfeed her child anywhere she feels fit. Some people who oppose breastfeeding in public thinks that exposing a breast even for nursing can be dangerous for the women because its physically and emotionally intimate and therefore it should not be done in the public. Adults with this viewpoint have expressed concerns regarding how their children may be impacted. But why do people forget that when they were born they were also fed in public at least occasionally. Babies get their nutrient from feeding so why stop a mother from feeding her baby.

Breastfeeding in public is legal across the United States, but widespread discrimination toward breastfeeding in public still exists. Despite that laws exist, women feel hesitant and uncomfortable breastfeeding in public because of societal view of it being perverse or indecent. Is it wrong to tell women who nurse in public to stop or leave? Is it not an infringement on her civil rights? I believe women should not have to feed her child in a dressing room or a bathroom because she is doing the most natural thing for her child. “A United Kingdom Department of health survey found that 84% (about 5 out of 6 people) found breastfeeding in public acceptable, if done discreetly, however, 67% (2 out of 3) mothers are worried about general opinion being against breastfeeding” (UK Dept. of Health 2004). The World Health Organization recommends that breastfeeding should be done up to the age of five. Government campaigns and strategies have been created to promote breastfeeding in the united states and around the world and despite their efforts, women are still asked to stop breastfeeding in public. They are asked to leave restaurants, malls, to go into dressing rooms, bathrooms and in rare cases, arrested. If an adult can eat in the restaurant or in any other public area, then why can’t a baby have his food in public. Why are they asked to leave the public area even though its legally to do in the public? One can’t leave their baby unfed and crying, if an adult can eat whenever or whatever they want, then why can’t babies have their food. In September of 1999 A United States House of Representative bill (HR2490) with a breastfeeding amendment was signed in to law. It stipulated that no government funds may be used to enforce any prohibition on women breastfeeding their children in Federal buildings or on Federal property. A majority of states have enacted state statues specifically permitting the exposure of the female breast by women breastfeeding infants, or exempting such women from prosecution under applicable statutes such as those regarding indecent exposure. Support exists in the United States. Both federal and state government levels have put laws into effect to protect women. Organizations exist to support women and to promote the positive effects of breastfeeding, for example Le Leche League International and the World Health Organization are both strong supporters and promoters of breastfeed.

A mother who decides she is going to breastfeed exclusively does not make this decision as a way of getting attention in public; instead, she makes this decision based on what is best for her and her baby. She considers that along with sustaining the baby’s health that it also benefits herself. {The mother not only considers the baby’s health, but also considers her benefits as well. This is a more understandable statement.} For instance, it reduces the risk of certain cancers, promotes postpartum weight loss, and it is an inexpensive alternative to buying formula. Its proved that the babies are healthy only because of breast milk. Most cultures around the world think breastfeeding is natural and not sexual. It would benefit others to understand and embrace this natural way of feeding babies because it is a natural part of life. Mothers, and friends and family members of moms who breastfeed can help to create awareness by explaining the benefits to others who do not understand. People need to be more open minded. Does breastfeeding in public harm, hurt, or hinder anyone? The answer is NO. Breastfeeding, regardless of when or where it occurs, is just better for mothers, babies, and families. When mothers breastfeed their babies in public, they should be allowed to and be accepted without criticism.

For now, it seems that the best thing to do is cover up with a blanket or a nursing shirt if you are breastfeeding in public. Some mothers don't enjoy this as they can't see and make eye contact with their baby, yet others argue that not covering your baby from the outside world while they feed distracts them, they look around and stop suckling properly. The other option is to make a nursing area in mall, restaurant, park, or another public place.