Nursing In Public? Remember This Phone Number

Posted by Jen_Mom365

As a nursing mother, and an extended breastfeeder at that, nursing in public is not one of my favorite things. When my children were infants it was different. Fewer people have visceral reactions when you nurse a newborn. It's sweet, and healthy, and borderline "normal." But when you're nursing an almost-two-year-old, people start to get a little upset. 

I remember when my son was about 18 months old, I was nursing him at one of those indoor play areas at the local shopping mall. He's always been way above the 100th percentile for height and weight, so he looked like he was almost 3. He was hungry and anxious, so I offered him my breast. One of the other mothers made a point of getting my attention and staring me down angrily. I didn't stop, but I still remember that shame she was trying to make me feel. 

I stood my ground (or sat my seat, really) and continued nursing, but I would have loved if I could have taken out my cell phone, dialed 855-NIP-FREE, and loudly reported her behavior. It would have made for a much better story. 

Have you been publicly shamed? Will you report an incident if it happens to you? 

Read about the new reporting line here. They'll support you to know your rights, anonymously record the incident, and offer other support.

3 back to baby

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