Breastfeeding when out and about this summer

It’s summer time and most of us will be thinking about treating ourselves to a well deserved holiday – or at the very least a day out or two. If you do decide to take a break away from home, one thing you should try to leave behind when you go away is any worries you might have about breastfeeding in public. After all you don’t want to ruin your holiday by feeling you need to rush back home every time your baby wants a feed.

What you have to try to remember is that what you are doing is not only best for your baby but also completely natural. Furthermore, the law is on your side. Since April 2008 legislation has been in force to prevent nursing mums feeding babies up to a year old being told to leave public places, and this will soon apply to older babies/toddlers as well. In Scotland, this right is already in place.

If you do feel slightly hesitant however, it’s increasingly easy nowadays to find somewhere that’s a little more private to feed your baby, if that’s what you prefer. Many shopping centres, department stores, baby shops and supermarkets have special feeding rooms where you can breastfeed or bottle-feed, and change your baby’s nappy.

Wearing feeding-friendly clothing can also make you feel more at ease and discreet. A lot of mums find that with a bit of practice it soon becomes second nature and people won’t even notice. They’ll think you and baby are just having a nice cuddle!

One other thing you might want to consider if you are going out and about is expressing. Expressing your milk with a breast pump is convenient, quick and really easy, once you know how. There are basically two types of pumps available – a manual or an electric version. The better ones are designed to imitate the way your baby breastfeeds, making them extremely comfortable, quick and efficient to use.

Look for a breast pump which allows you to express directly into a feeding bottle or into a cup, for older babies (6 months+).

Having the option to give baby a bottle or cup gives you greater freedom and flexibility. It means you can continue to give your baby all the benefits of your milk while keeping yourself happy too. And when you’re on holiday keeping everyone happy is important – especially you!