Babies (newborns esp.) have tiny tummies, and need to feed frequently, and that's before you consider comfort nursing. Breastfeeding is optimal for nutrition+ and comes in a convenient package! You never have to worry about running low, sterilize equipment or check the temperature :)
Little babies also require a lot of sleep (often just after nursing!), and can be surprisingly portable. Add in a sling or stroller (some comfy place to sleep) and pretty much any restaurant or pub is just fine as far as the infant is concerned. (Ok, maybe not one with a live band, but otherwise...)
I personally refuse to go away to feed my baby, and do not use a cover++. I am not a "discreet" breastfeeder, but I try not to be flamboyant either; just natural. Baby is hungry, I feed her.
I do wear nursing shirts often, which provide better coverage than t-shirts, mostly because I don't like exposing my post-baby tummy! A lot of clothing choices can help you be less conspicuous while nursing, and they're generally ones that make nursing easier, too.
As far as crying is concerned (much of which can be controlled with nursing!), I try to think again in terms of the baby, not other people. If she's really upset, am I honouring her needs to let her cry while I finish a meal? I let this guide me when I'm out.
+Not to get down on those who *can't* breastfeed or need to supplement, of course. ++That said, I find that visual connection is important in breastfeeding, so *I* am not as comfortable is covered, either.
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Babies (newborns esp.) have tiny tummies, and need to feed frequently, and that's before you consider comfort nursing. Breastfeeding is optimal for nutrition+ and comes in a convenient package! You never have to worry about running low, sterilize equipment or check the temperature :)
Little babies also require a lot of sleep (often just after nursing!), and can be surprisingly portable. Add in a sling or stroller (some comfy place to sleep) and pretty much any restaurant or pub is just fine as far as the infant is concerned. (Ok, maybe not one with a live band, but otherwise...)
I personally refuse to go away to feed my baby, and do not use a cover++. I am not a "discreet" breastfeeder, but I try not to be flamboyant either; just natural. Baby is hungry, I feed her.
I do wear nursing shirts often, which provide better coverage than t-shirts, mostly because I don't like exposing my post-baby tummy! A lot of clothing choices can help you be less conspicuous while nursing, and they're generally ones that make nursing easier, too.
As far as crying is concerned (much of which can be controlled with nursing!), I try to think again in terms of the baby, not other people. If she's really upset, am I honouring her needs to let her cry while I finish a meal? I let this guide me when I'm out.
+Not to get down on those who *can't* breastfeed or need to supplement, of course.
++That said, I find that visual connection is important in breastfeeding, so *I* am not as comfortable is covered, either.