News
November 30, 2025
Ask Lisi: I can't shake a bad reaction to my breastfeeding in public
You were doing the best thing you could for your baby; breastfeeding is the most natural thing in the world.
**Navigating Public Breastfeeding: When Good Intentions Meet Unexpected Judgement**
For new mothers, breastfeeding is often hailed as a beautiful and natural bonding experience, providing vital nourishment and health benefits to their infants. However, the reality of breastfeeding in public can sometimes be far from idyllic, leaving mothers feeling judged, uncomfortable, and even traumatized. One such mother recently wrote to advice columnist Lisi, detailing her struggle to overcome a negative reaction she received while breastfeeding her child in public.
The letter writer, whose identity remains private, expressed that despite knowing she was providing the best possible care for her baby, she has been unable to shake off the lingering feelings of shame and self-doubt following the incident. The details of the encounter remain undisclosed, but the emotional impact is clear: a shadow has been cast over what should have been a positive and empowering experience.
Lisi, in her response, empathized with the mother's feelings and reassured her that she was absolutely doing the right thing. Breastfeeding, she emphasized, is the most natural and beneficial way to nourish a baby. The columnist highlighted the importance of remembering that negative reactions often stem from ignorance, discomfort, or outdated societal norms, rather than any fault of the breastfeeding mother.
The incident underscores the ongoing need for greater public awareness and acceptance of breastfeeding. While laws protecting a mother's right to breastfeed in public exist in many places, societal attitudes often lag behind. Many women still face disapproving glances, insensitive comments, or even outright harassment when breastfeeding outside the home.
Experts recommend that mothers facing negative reactions while breastfeeding in public should prioritize their own well-being and the needs of their baby. Strategies include seeking support from breastfeeding support groups, educating those who express negativity, and, if necessary, removing themselves from uncomfortable situations. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that breastfeeding is a fundamental right, and mothers should feel empowered to nourish their children without fear of judgement or shame. The journey of motherhood is challenging enough without added societal pressures; embracing and normalizing breastfeeding is a crucial step towards creating a more supportive environment for all mothers and their children.
For new mothers, breastfeeding is often hailed as a beautiful and natural bonding experience, providing vital nourishment and health benefits to their infants. However, the reality of breastfeeding in public can sometimes be far from idyllic, leaving mothers feeling judged, uncomfortable, and even traumatized. One such mother recently wrote to advice columnist Lisi, detailing her struggle to overcome a negative reaction she received while breastfeeding her child in public.
The letter writer, whose identity remains private, expressed that despite knowing she was providing the best possible care for her baby, she has been unable to shake off the lingering feelings of shame and self-doubt following the incident. The details of the encounter remain undisclosed, but the emotional impact is clear: a shadow has been cast over what should have been a positive and empowering experience.
Lisi, in her response, empathized with the mother's feelings and reassured her that she was absolutely doing the right thing. Breastfeeding, she emphasized, is the most natural and beneficial way to nourish a baby. The columnist highlighted the importance of remembering that negative reactions often stem from ignorance, discomfort, or outdated societal norms, rather than any fault of the breastfeeding mother.
The incident underscores the ongoing need for greater public awareness and acceptance of breastfeeding. While laws protecting a mother's right to breastfeed in public exist in many places, societal attitudes often lag behind. Many women still face disapproving glances, insensitive comments, or even outright harassment when breastfeeding outside the home.
Experts recommend that mothers facing negative reactions while breastfeeding in public should prioritize their own well-being and the needs of their baby. Strategies include seeking support from breastfeeding support groups, educating those who express negativity, and, if necessary, removing themselves from uncomfortable situations. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that breastfeeding is a fundamental right, and mothers should feel empowered to nourish their children without fear of judgement or shame. The journey of motherhood is challenging enough without added societal pressures; embracing and normalizing breastfeeding is a crucial step towards creating a more supportive environment for all mothers and their children.
Category:
Politics