Breastfeeding in public

[Allthingsfloralandpatterned88]

So I'm sitting in the corner of a reasonably busy cafe with DS (3 months) and he starts wailing. I realise I am wearing a dress that isn't amazing for nursing as I have to hike my boob over the top as opposed to opening it at the side. But I do this and latch him on.

However DM who I am with starts shrieking "darling you can't do that" and trys to stop me. She then keeps trying to drape things over my boob and DS's head which means he then loses his latch and I get flustered.

She is great with DS and a big help but she has done this a few times before/ suggested I find a quiet room etc. Is this a generational thing? I've been quite happy feeding in public but she makes me feel like a kind of mad hippy! I now am starting to feel self conscious for feeding in public around her and its making me more anxious about feeding in public in general. I kind of feel as though I should stick to my guns because I don't feel like I should always have to leave the room/ try and find somewhere in private when I'm out and about. Early motherhood is hard enough as it is!

@Justheretoaskaquestion91

I’m however uncomfortable watching women whip out their breasts from the top and feeding their babies

But why does it make you uncomfortable? It’s so much easier

I’ve no idea why. You’d think someone with my background would be used to it and therefore not bat an eyelid but there you go.

But why? Who is it hurting? Why should women always be the ones making their lives harder on the off chance someone might be uncomfortable?

Is this just another instance of society telling women that their bodies should be hidden as much as possible? Gods forbid you get labelled indiscreet.
I completely agree. It is society's misogynistic belief that women's bodies are for men's sexual pleasure only. Therefore they must cover up from everyone else. They even have women putting other women down for using their breasts for their purpose, rather than being a sexual part of the body only.

Be "discreet" if you choose. But let others choose to breastfeed however is the least stressful way.

@HikingforScenery. I don't mind people admitting it makes them uncomfortable, as long as this doesn't come with the expectation that the onus is on the breastfeeding mother to adapt. People can't help their feelings, upbringing or culture. As long as people with these feelings are aware that this is their own issue and continue to support mothers regardless. I am OK with that. I think you mentioned those are your feelings further up thread, although sorry if I've mixed you up with another poster.

People can't help their feelings, upbringing or culture. As long as people with these feelings are aware that this is their own issue and continue to support mothers regardless. I am OK with that.

I agree with this.

Unfortunately there seems to be some on this thread who give the impression that they take a delight in making others uncomfortable, which I don't agree with.

Consideration and understanding go both ways, but pps seem to think it's perfectly fine and a bit of a joke to sneer at anyone who feels awkward around feeding mothers and are applauded and lauded by their fan club on here.

It's never OK to make anyone feel awkward if it can be avoided, is it?