to ignore my DH's views when it comes to breastfeeding in public?

[SpamMarie]

I don't have any children yet, but I was discussing the possibility with DH, including the fact that I'd be pretty dead set on breastfeeding.

He is very happy about that - breast is best after all - but we disagreed on one rather important point. Breast feeding in public is, in his view, Not Going To Happen. He says he doesn't have an issue with women who breastfeed in public himself, just that he doesn't want me to do it because it will attract negative attention, there may be perverts about, it's all society's fault etc. He is concerned for me and my safety. He reckons as long as we're organised with our feeding times and outings, there shouldn't be a problem, and I can always just pump in advance and take that out with me.

I don't think DH knows very much about how breastfeeding actually works. Breastfeeding in public was not something I was initially overly keen to do myself (purely because I'm shy), but the more I read about how breastfeeding works, the more I see that it would be a hugely positive thing to embrace unless I wish to remain trapped in the house for 12 months. According to him, I can just pump to solve that issue. Never mind missing out on bonding, the risk of nipple confusion, the general faff and equipment needed, and the fact that I really don't like the idea of pumping unless really medically necessary.

Also, I am not AT ALL bashing women who choose this method of feeding. I just want to know AIBU at my husband's attitude?

I BF for 15 and 12 months wherever and whenever it was necesary. I don't think many people really noticed. The only negative comments I had were from my family. I certainly don't remember any others now.

I did it in public, in front of DH's friends/family. I didn't ever discuss it with DH. It was like discussing whether we were going to bother with changing nappies or not!

If you bottle feed, you baby will need feeding in public. If you breast feed your baby will need feeding in public. There is no discussion to have!

Take him to an NCT breastfeeding class...

I was at a kids' event this weekend, and there was a woman there breastfeeding whilst playing football with an older child. The only reason that I knew she was feeding was from the general position of the baby's head - you couldn't see a thing. Much respect to her.

My breasts are too large and saggy for any such tricks, but I've still managed to feed in public with two babies without scaring any horses. After a while it just becomes a non-issue.