Public breastfeeding as a new mum can be daunting, but here are some helpful tips.
Wear helpful clothing: a loose fitting top which is short enough that you don't sit on it is great. It needs to be loose enough that you can easily lift it, and that it doesn't hitch up all the way round. Alternatively, breastfeeding tops are designed so that you can get feeding access without lifting your top. These are great if you want to wear a fitted or longish top. Designs vary, and the best ones are cut to flatter the New Mum shape - bigger around the boob and not clingy around the tummy.
A long wide scarf or a pashmina can also be a useful helpas you latch baby on if you want to hide yourself from neighbours. Make sure you pack one in your baby changing bags.
And of course, don't forget underwear! Maternity underwear is a must, you need to be able to unclip quickly, and get something that fits comfortably. Try ordering a few designs in a few different sizes. Try them all on, jiggle about and keep only those that really fit and feel comfortable.
Try to anticipate when baby is hungry, don't wait for him to be shouting. Lots of babies will have little signs that they're hungry before they start shouting the place down and drawing everyone's attention to themselves and Mum. You'll soon recognise the signs, and when you see them find a good place and get him attached!
If on the other hand you have baby like my first who would go from sleeping angel to famished and screaming in less than 10 seconds, the best you can do is have an idea of when he's likely to be hungry and get ready. My little one was such a heavy sleeper I sometimes got him into place on my lap whilst still asleep, waited for him to wake up, then got him latched on before he knew what had happened.
Find a good place to stop: to begin with at least you'll probably find it easiest to nurse sitting in a straight backed chair, perhaps in a corner so you can see who's about, and with a long glass of water to hand. Avoid noisy places if you have a very inquisitive baby as he'll be looking around (and trying to take your nipple with him) rather than concentrating on the job at hand. I like cafes, there's always somewhere to sit, drink is on hand, and you have something to do (eat cakes!)
Wear helpful clothing: a loose fitting top which is short enough that you don't sit on it is great. It needs to be loose enough that you can easily lift it, and that it doesn't hitch up all the way round. Alternatively, breastfeeding tops are designed so that you can get feeding access without lifting your top. These are great if you want to wear a fitted or longish top. Designs vary, and the best ones are cut to flatter the New Mum shape - bigger around the boob and not clingy around the tummy.
A long wide scarf or a pashmina can also be a useful helpas you latch baby on if you want to hide yourself from neighbours. Make sure you pack one in your baby changing bags.
And of course, don't forget underwear! Maternity underwear is a must, you need to be able to unclip quickly, and get something that fits comfortably. Try ordering a few designs in a few different sizes. Try them all on, jiggle about and keep only those that really fit and feel comfortable.
Try to anticipate when baby is hungry, don't wait for him to be shouting. Lots of babies will have little signs that they're hungry before they start shouting the place down and drawing everyone's attention to themselves and Mum. You'll soon recognise the signs, and when you see them find a good place and get him attached!
If on the other hand you have baby like my first who would go from sleeping angel to famished and screaming in less than 10 seconds, the best you can do is have an idea of when he's likely to be hungry and get ready. My little one was such a heavy sleeper I sometimes got him into place on my lap whilst still asleep, waited for him to wake up, then got him latched on before he knew what had happened.
Find a good place to stop: to begin with at least you'll probably find it easiest to nurse sitting in a straight backed chair, perhaps in a corner so you can see who's about, and with a long glass of water to hand. Avoid noisy places if you have a very inquisitive baby as he'll be looking around (and trying to take your nipple with him) rather than concentrating on the job at hand. I like cafes, there's always somewhere to sit, drink is on hand, and you have something to do (eat cakes!)
About the Author:
The writer Jo Garrett offers tips and advice on breastfeeding tops and baby changing bags at Cecily Plum her website.
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