Stupid question but how do you feed a newborn when you're out and about

[Gangle]

DS is just over 2 weeks old and I'm trying to get up the courage to take him out for longer than half an hour but I just don't know how to breast feed in public. Can I literally just do it anywhere? What about changing? Do most places have changing facilities? Any tips greatly appreciated.

Most places have changing facilities, many have breast-feeding facilities. Big department stores and shopping centres tend to be good, John Lewis always a favourite. I used to breast feed in cafes etc, never had a problem, most people are fairly switched on these days. I used to wear a largish cardi or coat open at the front and just hitch up my teeshirt. Don't make it a reason for staying...you need to get out.

I mean "staying in"...sorry - can of Stella.

What about carrying him around in a sling that you can feed in? I didn't do this much when my DS was tiny but now he's a giant 24 week old I so wish I had. They are so portable at that age, make the most of it.

John Lewis is great like nelliesmum says, they have a fab parent room here with breast and bottle feeding room, lots of changing bays etc, lovely and clean and comfy.

Most places have a changing room, shopping centres, supermarkets, large department stores etc.

You should be able to feed anywhere it's all about building confidence. Can you take your partner or a friend out with you? Cafes are a good place - usually comfy chairs, plus you can have a drink and a bite to eat at the same time.
Most bfeeders tend to go for a stretchy vest with another loose top underneath - pull the vest down and the top up, nice and discrete and you don't get draughty. You can always drape a shawl or a muslin over you as well. But baby will cover you up!

HTH

bf anywhere you like - I wear something that can be lifted up easily & with some coverage. Take a pocket changing mat & you can change on your lap or floor.

If you feel a bit anxious - and some of us do initially - take a friend with you and try feeding somewhere that you know is b/f friendly.

With my dd2 I have got quite bold and feed most places. Don't feel you have to feed in a babycare/changing room - they are often very smelly due to the nappy bin.

Coffee shops are good - Starbucks usually have baby changing (and you get to sit down ).

I would also add that some Boots and Mothercares have lovely parent rooms where you can breast feed/change your baby.

You can obviously feed your baby anywhere but it can be nicer to do it somewhere quiet where you know you and your baby can enjoy the experience.

I was hideously embarrassed until I met a friend who quite shamelessly got it out anywhere to feed her baby. It really helped me and I became very adept and very brave. I am sure you will too. Head for the feeding rooms first and don't be shy to feed in coffee shops and shop restaurants either. - JL and M&S are good also BabyGap and other baby stores.

If you want to breastfeed in public then practice as if you were out at home. I usually wore a vest top and a cardigan over the top so you can keep one layer over your side - that gets more exposed than your boobs! Is there anyone you can go out with who'll support you - I taught my friend to bf in public and I got my confidence from my ante-natal group.

Good luck and enjoy!

i agree with pinkspottywellies - i had a bit of a shock the 1st time i tried to feed in public, as had literally only done in it my pjs with norks hanging out before! it is a TINY bit trickier but not much, but if you're worried do practice!
also i have totally given up trying to drape muslins etc - it just gives you one more thing to faff with. i just turn my back a little to get her latched on first.