Confidence to breastfeed in public

As a first time mum, who was pregnant all the way through the Covid 19 lockdown, I felt quite clueless about breast feeding. If it wasn’t for the online sessions and the support from Sally and the Mammas group, I think I would have given up very early on. 

I always wanted to try to breastfeed but I never knew how hard it would actually be. These photos may make my journey look so easy but it wasn’t. I was sore, exhausted and confused for the first 6 weeks. I was given different Information by professionals and even sent to A&E for something that was normal. Being able to go for a walk and leave the house was so important for my mental health during this time but I didn’t walk too far because I was worried about feeding.

There are a lot of opinions and fears about breastfeeding in public. All I have learnt, since being a mummy and from listening to the Mammas, the importance of feeding my baby on demand whenever and wherever she needs. I wouldn’t stop someone from having a glass of water if they were thirsty so why would I stop my baby? So, I started by feeding her outside when no one was around to make sure I could find a comfortable position. I also found wearing a thin nursing top meant I could pull it down but lift my jumper/coat up to make feeding more private. I then moved on to feeding in a cafe and in a sensory play group. Now I will feed her anywhere meaning I can go where I want rather than staying in. 

I hope this blog will help other mums feel more comfortable knowing I was in the same boat. Many of us are now only allowed to meet others outside which means our time as new mums can be very lonely. 

Go for a walk. Feed your baby surrounded by nature. No one will judge you and you are AMAZING! 

Ellen Campbell and Averly; 31 October 2020

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