Breastfeeding in Public

The three key words are: Practice, practice, practice! Breastfeeding is often a dance between mommy and baby, so the two of you just need to find your rhythm. So naturally, as your baby gets older, and the pair of you become much better "booby partners," latching on becomes more of a cinch. In the meantime, have your partner (or a good friend) watch you at home to "critique" you as you finesse your technique. Always carry a small blanket or burp cloth so you can cover the baby's head while nursing. A sling also makes it easy to nurse discreetly. Some slings even have an extra bit of fabric to use as a cover-up.

Dressing yourself for nursing success is also helpful. Obviously, there are many nice nursing bras and clothes to choose from now; but even without the special wardrobe, any top that you can either pull aside or lift up in one fell swoop is your best bet. (Buttons and hooks only make an already hungry baby frustrated. "Just give me the goods, ma!") Layers can be helpful so you don't have to flash belly along with boob. Wrap-style and kimono tops are surefire winners.

As part of your mommy-baby dance, you'll start to plan your errands around your nursing schedule, to make life easier for both of you. But just like explosive diapers, you can't plan for everything. Just stay calm, think creatively and carry on. If you have no other option, you can always excuse yourself, ask a helpful clerk for a private area, or if all else fails, you can always feed the baby in the car.

Attending La Leche League meetings is a great way to observe how other mothers breastfeed discreetly and to learn about other new products out there for mothers.

If you're still not comfortable breastfeeding in public and if your baby is taking a bottle, you can always pump a little and stash some emergency breast milk in a diaper bag, just in case your boobs are temporarily unavailable.