Getting used to nursing in public is a challenge, so we thought that you might like some stories and hints from other moms who have experience breastfeeding their babies anywhere and everywhere the two of them happen to be.

Eight Hints for Nursing on the Go
Like anything new, nursing in public feels a bit awkward at the beginning. But once you have your techniques down and your nursing wardrobe together, you'll find it isn't hard at all. As a nursing mother, you are always packed to go. Your baby's food is warm and ready whenever you are. Here's some hints from other Motherwear moms:

1. Schedule frequent nursing breaks. Regular snuggle times will reassure your child in the midst of a stimulating and changing environment.

2. Nurse at the first sign of hunger. You'll both be calmer, and attract less attention if you begin the feeding before your little one is fussy and frantic.

3. Consider using a baby sling or a front carrier. It will keep your baby close and comforted, allow you to nurse discreetly, and leave your hands free for other activities.

4. Wear clothing that makes nursing easy and comfortable such as separates and nursing tops or nursing sweaters.

5. In restaurants, choose a seat away from the traffic flow with your back to the crowd. A calm, semi-private spot will help both you and your baby relax.

6. When shopping, take a few minutes to breastfeed in the car before you go in. It will calm your baby and give you extra shopping time.

7. Wherever you are, keep an eye out for quiet places, lounges or benches where you can nurse comfortably. Then you will be able to go there quickly when your baby starts to fuss.

8. Try out nursing discreetly at home, and make sure your first trip out is with a supportive friend.

Have Baby, Will Travel…
Plan ahead. Think about where you'll be and what you'll be doing. Will you need a bathing suit in which you can nurse? Dressy outfits? Casual wear? Do you have enough nursing bras and nightgowns? Wash and organize your nursing clothes in advance so there's time to order missing items.

Stories from Real Breastfeeding Moms
“Once I started breastfeeding, I had a different conception of my breasts. I went from feeling they were a private, intimate part of my body to feeling proud they enabled me to feed my daughter and give her a healthy start in life. I have developed a new respect for my breasts, and no longer feel they must be kept hidden. I love to nurse Mazal, and we nurse everywhere - even on the New York City subway train!" -Lynn Kaplan, New York

"My family and I went out to a free concert with our very active 15-month-old. Since I was wearing a nursing top, it was easy enough for the two of us to snuggle together and enjoy the sounds around us. Nursing is a lot more than just nourishment for Melanie. To her, my breast is a complete package: It's her pillow, security blanket, and lovey, all rolled into one. All our senses were filled during the concert: with lights, sounds, and touch, but most important, with togetherness."
-Rebecca McCoy, Maryland

"The baby sling has enabled me to carry my daughter places where a stroller was too cumbersome and to nurse her in situations where privacy was not to be found. I am much more attached to and in tune with this baby than my previous ones, and my confidence as a parent has soared with the compliments and positive comments I receive every time I wear her. This not only has transformed my parenting of my daughter, but has carried over into my relationship with my sons as well."
-Margaret Roney, North Carolina

Your Monthly Breastfeeding Planner
You’re currently reading breastfeeding information we’ve geared specifically to new nursing moms whose baby is about 1 month old. Our website offers insight and information on other stages of pregnancy and birth, to help guide you through the details of selecting your nursing wardrobe, planning for those first days in the hospital and home, breastfeeding in public, returning to work, and more. Browse your current stage, look back or ahead, and refer to this section often as your nursing experience progresses:

It's Time to Shop for Maternity and Nursing Bras (6th month of pregnancy)
Essential Information for New Nursing Moms (7th month of pregnancy)
Pack Your Bag For Baby’s Birth! (baby due in less than 2 months)
Building The Perfect Nursing Wardrobe (baby due in 1 month or less)
Essential Information To Get Breastfeeding Started (baby due now)
Breastfeed Your Baby – Anytime, Anywhere (baby 2 months old)
Yes, You Can Breastfeed & Work (baby 3 months old)
10 Reasons to Keep Nursing your Baby (baby 4+ months old)