8.27.2009

Breast feeding in Public

I subscribe to an online baby calendar of sorts and today's topic was breast feeding in public. A woman had been kicked out of a Denny's restaurant for breast feeding her baby without being covered. I think it's so interesting that, despite billboards with women in promiscuous poses, lingerie commercials, and what-have-you-else that is displayed prominently in our society down to super low-cut shirts displaying "the girls" for all the world to see, that public breast feeding is such an issue.

Personally, I usually choose to either pump and then bottle-feed in public or I will go into a corner and use my handy "hooter hider" to feed Henry. But that's because I'm scared- scared of making people feel uncomfortable. But it doesn't offend me when I see someone breast feeding in public. I wonder why it's such a taboo when it's a purpose of "the girls" to nourish a baby? Why don't people get as riled up about Victoria's Secret commercials? I mean, basically the same portion of the breast is covered when you're feeding a child or when you're wearing a bra.

Intrigue.

10 comments:

lesli said...

I went over to check on a customer at Chick-fil-A the other day & she was breastfeeding in front of God, everybody & the Chick-fil-A cow! I have to say it shocked me speechless, and while I wouldn't do it because I'm like you apparently it doesn't bother a lot of people!

Jeff and Lauren said...

Amen sister!! At the Parent's Center where Will and I go all the time for Baby & Me, everyone just breastfeeds when they need to, no covers needed. So, I have become used to that and last time I was there, I fed Will and didn't realize till later that there was a Dad present for that session. :) Now Will hates being covered so it is harder to feed in public if I have to cover up...especially when it is hot out!

Dale said...

God invented the procedure, why be ashamed? I agree with being a bit careful, but there is nothing wrong with doing it in public.

Lora said...

NOW YOU'VE PICKED A HOT TOPIC! You are absolutely correct, I have seen plenty of women-of all ages and shapes with nothing left to the imagination on the beach!

The Tylers said...

We had a girl that was visiting our Sunday school class last month and breastfed her 15 month-old during the lesson. Interesting. I wouldn't do it, but it had a lot of people talking:)!

Marylou said...

Kicked out of Denny's? Seriously? It's not like the Ritz...

would they rather her feed her child and have the kid be happy than screaming its head off while they were trying to enjoy thier grand slam breakfast!? Geez people.

Deb said...

I always felt better covered up...I rarely nursed in public, but had to a couple of times..but then I never felt very comfortable in skimpy swim wear either. I guess I have issues. :-)

C and G said...

I have definately seen a lot worse at Denny's than a breastfeeding mother...

lindsey said...

Good point!

Frazier's Family said...

The longer I do it- the less I care...about other people, that is. But I doubt I'll ever be so cavalier I don't cover up- I mean, I'm at least that modest! And it isn't like it's that much trouble to do so. I did totally think about this yesterday as I was nursing Frazier in a gas station parking lot. Long story. :)