While we hope that everyone feels comfortable and confident nursing in public, we know the reality is that not everyone does. It can be daunting at first (it was for me!), which can create additional challenges in your breastfeeding journey and in meeting your goals. We've reached out to our duet community to gather advice from real moms who’ve been there to compile a list of tips.
Know Your Rights
I think it is important to kick off with a reminder that in the U.S., all 50 states have laws that specifically protect your right to breastfeed in any public or private location. This knowledge can help give you peace of mind when you’re out and about. You can check out the specific laws for your state here.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like many aspects of breastfeeding, the more you do it, the easier it becomes. In the beginning, you can try practicing around supportive friends or in low-pressure environments to get used to the steps involved, determine your preferred positioning, etc.
“Honestly it felt awkward at first, but it gets so much more comfortable the more you do it”
“I practiced at home in front of the mirror to figure out the best positioning and gain confidence”
“I started out in family-friendly places in the early days to build up my confidence”
“Once I got the hang of feeding while babywearing, that became my go-to in public”
Plan Your Outfit Accordingly
If you know you’ll be nursing while out, choosing the right outfit can make all the difference. Whether it’s a top you can lift up or pull down, a dress with button or wrap front access, or specific nursing-friendly clothing. And if you want additional privacy for you or your babe, a nursing cover or wrap. We of course hope you reach for your duet items (designed with super easy nursing access and built-in flexible coverage)!
“I like to have a nursing cover or swaddle available depending on the setting I’m in"
“I make sure my outfit will be easy for on the go nursing - duet is a big help with that!”
“Using a sun hat on my baby for a little more coverage during warmer months worked great”
“I’m most comfortable when I’m in nursing clothing with layers to keep more of myself covered”
Make Yourself Comfortable
Depending on the setting you’re in, do whatever you need to feel at ease. That might mean finding a comfier seat or moving to a quieter spot. You might want to continue your conversation with friends or prefer to have a distraction like a book or your phone. The important thing is to do what works best for you!
“I find it helpful to be able to chat with my partner or friends sitting nearby”
“If I’m not comfortable where I am, I move to a bench, my car, or a more secluded place”
“When at a restaurant, I eat and drink with everyone else while nursing”
“If I’m out shopping, dressing rooms or lounge areas in stores are great!”
Words of Encouragement
Everyone’s breastfeeding journey is so unique and what works for one person might not work for another. Hopefully some of these tips will come in handy as you figure out your own preferences– we are here to support you in feeling comfortable and confident whenever and wherever you are feeding your baby!
“I don’t worry about anyone else around me and just focus on feeding my baby”
“I remind myself I’d rather be able to breastfeed on the go than be stuck at home”
“I’ve found that most people don’t realize what you’re doing, so just go about your thing!”
“I tell myself that I am feeding my baby, which is more important than any awkward glances”