Food ‘on the go’

Having a baby is something most parents want to shout about, and rightly so. It is one of the proudest feelings you’ll ever have, and with the summer season just arriving what better time to step out and show off your new arrival.

That said, despite recent government proposals that will give mums the legal right to feed their babies in restaurants, cafes, shops and on public transport without being asked to stop, many new mums are still concerned about how to maintain their breastfeeding routine when they’re ‘on the go’.

Firstly, you should remember it absolutely is acceptable to breastfeed your baby when you’re outside the home, and one of the many advantages of breastfeeding your baby is that the feed is always ready. Breastfeeding when you’re out is convenient, hygienic and the most natural and healthy way for your baby to feed. Remember also, your breastmilk is packed full of the perfect combination of nutrients that your baby needs – so you should be very proud of what you’re doing. Keep up the good work!

It’s increasingly easy now to find somewhere a little more private to feed your baby while you’re out. Many shopping centres, department stores, baby shops and supermarkets have special feeding rooms where you can breast and bottle feed and change your baby’s nappy.

It may help you to feel more confident about feeding in public however, if you practice at home first. Certain types of clothing or a scarf can help you to feed more discreetly – quite often people are not even aware you’re breastfeeding and think you and baby are just having a cuddle!

Flexible feeding

If you are planning trips out alone or are going back to work, you may want to consider expressing your milk so you have the freedom and flexibility to provide your baby with breastmilk when you are out and about, no matter where you are. It also means your partner can help out and share in the pleasure of feeding your baby.

Expressing is easy with practice, especially if you use a pump. And, if you invest in a pump like the Philips AVENT Single Electronic Breast Pump, it has never been simpler or quicker to do so. So don’t hold back – be proud and enjoy every moment of your first trip out!