I am all for moms being able to breastfeed where ever they choose to, but I am not for the women who just "whip it out" because the law says they can. In my opinion, these women crave attention and drama, and are a little selfish. There are so many things on the market now that makes breastfeeding discreet and nobody would give a second glance. They are also so easy to make that you don't have spend much money for those on a budget.
As for the store owner, he didn't handle the situation the best way, but he's a man and was probably just shocked! How many moms come into a store like that and feel they need to spend so much time in there they can't leave to feed their children????

It's great moms want to and can breastfeed. I am all for it. But what I don't understand is not bringing anything to cover yourself when you are in public. Come on, even if you don't want to buy a stylish wrap or cover, how about just using a blanket??? There are plenty of ways to cover yourself and be appropriate so people don't even know what you are doing.

The kids and I were at a place recently where a mom plopped down on the floor right where about a dozen kids were playing and started nursing her 2 year old. I was shocked. I didn't even know what to say - it was uncomfortable for me and I am a woman, a mom and I breastfed my twins. The kids were very curious, staring and asking questions about what was going on. It was so awkward. Couldn't she have moved to the corner of the room? To a table that was out of the way? How about a blanket or a coverup? How about going into the waiting room that was completely empty?

I am all for women's rights, but I agree with Tracy - I am not in support of those women who just 'whip it out' because they can, and obviously want the attention.

I'm saddened that there is often so much discussion about this, including people who think breastfeeding is in any way gross.

I have never experienced a woman "just whipping it out" in public. I suppose it's possible that it happens; but, I doubt it's common. Whether by use of some kind of cover-up, or just discreet placement of mom's top (nursing bras and tops are very helpful in facilitating discreet nursing, without restricting air flow or adding heat), I think most nursing moms are careful to be discreet, so as not to make others uncomfortable.

I imagine that the moms who participated in the nurse-in are frustrated that there continues to be such heated discussion. Unfortunately, they probably do more harm than good to their cause by choosing such a strong response. Few of us are open to considering opposing viewpoints when they are introduced in a heated or adversarial way.

Moms should never nurse in a bathroom. You wouldn't eat your meal there, and neither should baby.

You never breastfed in public? Don't be such a prude!! If it's ok to bottle feed a baby in the middle of a shop than it's ok to breastfeed there too. Read this to learn about a healthy attitude towards breastfeeding where breastfeeding is celebrated the same way pregnancy or a new baby is celebrated and not hidden away like some shameful and dirty little secret. http://www.drmomma.org/2009/07/breastfeeding-in-land-of-genghis-khan.html

Re: Yolanda's comment about going poop in public and comparing it to breastfeeding in public. Yolanda, people do go to the bathroom in public–they use public washrooms every day. There are not breastfeeding rooms available in most places, however. I've never gotten what the big deal is about this issue, if a woman is comfortable in public who cares. It doesn't impact me. I think women face enough obstacles trying to breastfeed already.

I agree with Brian. I would also like to add that I really don't think there are very many breastfeeding women out there that aren't discreet. I personally have never seen one whose breast I could actually see. I would think you have to be looking pretty close to see that. If you are gapping at someone like that maybe the gapper has the real problem. How bout mind your own business.

To say we need to be respectful of the fact that it makes other people uncomfortable is ridiculous! At one point inter-racial couples made people uncomfortable & I don't think they should have retreated their relationship to the privacy of their homes or a back room! I think the same is true for breastfeeding. There is nothing wrong with it so why hide it away. I think nursing moms need to be respectful and not whip their shirt off in public, but to lift it up to nurse is fine. Also I see more cleavage and more skin every day walking down the road then I see when a mom is nursing. Should they be asked to cover up or is it ok because there is not a baby attached to it? I have to say that most men I hear complain about nursing in pubic are the same men that love to see these scantly dressed woman (who I totally support to dress as they please) walk down the street. Also I bet there was more skin on half of those CD covers then that woman was showing.

As for covering up. Neither of my boys liked to be covered up. They would whip it right off within 30 seconds. Also in 95 degree weather I can't imagine covering them up! I'm sorry its a BOOB, we all got them, they are natural. Heck men can walk around topless no big deal, and it is a problem if less of my boob is seen nursing than if I were on the beach!

Additionally my 1st son nursed 20 hours a day! Had I not nursed in public while he was in a carrier I would have been house bond w/ no food for the first 6 months!

If you don't like to see someone breast feed their child. Than DON"T LOOK. Shame on you for trying to impede a woman to care for her child. It is the way nature intended us to feed our children. If a child needs to be feed, then feed them. It doesn't matter where it happens. It needs to be done.
I have nursed 3 children and I have never regretted it or been "ashamed" of it. I have always used a blanket or sheet so that my child is not distracted with things around them. I have not used it for the benefit of other people. This issue I feel is sometimes used to make a women feel bad about the way she raises her children and to discriminate against women and mothers in general.
Get over it! It's only a boob!

I second everything that Jenn said. I don't think that I have ever seen any specific parts of a womans breast when noticing a nursing mom in public. If you have then you are looking too hard! Much more skin is shown at the beach these days and no one seems to care about that! If the DeKalb store owner would have seen the same young mom with a low cut shirt he would never have minded her showing too much of her "girls" in his store. But because there was a baby attached, it was a different story. How sad that our society feels this way. I think that women should be able to feed their babies how, when and where they feel necessary. I was never good at using a blanket or cover-up contraption when nursing my 5 children, so I never nursed in public. I couldn't coordintate with those things and then I'd get nervous, not get a good flow, the kid would be crying.... So sad for me because it sure meant that I was out and about MUCH less than I should have been. I wish that I was comfortable breastfeeding my babies in public and wish that the majority of the public was not so judgemental and weird about it. Plus, it is very difficult to nurse for most. Having to be concerned about this issue makes it more difficult yet. When I see moms nursing in public, I applaud them! Oh, also, I have to say that I cannot imagine any woman wanting to nurse in public to get noticed. Not many people enjoy such negitive attention. Especially moms of new babies...gimmie a break!

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No mother should be restricted in feeding their child (would YOU like to be told when, where, and how to eat?) and that is a small simple truth. Anyone with a problem with that can go off by themselves and not call them out to embarress them. Yes, there ARE those "mothers" that use the baby as an excuse to show off their stuff, but thankfully they are few and far between.
You cannot assume~95% of the population of any group, whether it be breastfeeding or race or sexuality or even music lovers, to be exactly the same as the 5% that actually are. Too many people judge someone just based on their interests and/or natures...
If everyone thought this way...
If you breastfed, you are a dirty whore that likes to show off your stuff.
If you listen to metal music, you are insecure and like to hurt yourself.
If you are African-American, you live in a ghetto and smoke weed.
If you are gay, you are metrosexual and constantly horny for the same gender.
If you are a woman, you are b****** and overreactive, and your only place is in kitchen or bedroom.
If you are a man, you are a lying, cheating bastard and manipulate women.
"Welcome to society. You will be judged on what you wear, how you act, which music you listen to, what you look like, who you hang around with, and on practically every single trait or imperfection about you, and you'll be ostracized and made fun of who you are . Enjoy your stay." -Anonymous

What is the point of using the word ta-ta and boob? Dictionary definition of boob is "a stupid or foolish person." Why would a woman use these words instead of breast?

How is FEEDING a baby controversial? And there is a time and place for everything? What does that even mean? Your baby is hungry and you need to feed them. They are too young to know, understand or care about such sentiments. All a baby knows is that it's hungry, it wants to eat, and there is food inches away. When I left the hospital, I was instructed to breastfeed every 90 minutes during the day, and this went on until he was 6 months old. My son wasn't quiet either. He roared and shrieked when he wanted something, and never did this quiet and polite little fussing that I have seen other babies do.

Additionally, we had a lot of difficulty with breastfeeding. In fact, I had to pump every meal for him the first month (which was horrific and exhausting) because he had a sensitivity to cows milk, was too young to drink goat's milk, and he would throw up soy products, therefore, there were no formulas we were able to give him. We went back to the hospital to see pediatricians, have tests done to make sure the baby was okay, and meet with a nurse who was a breastfeeding specialist. I was never so happy as the day my son first started to breastfeed, because it meant he was okay, I would get to sleep, and I wouldn't have to listen to him scream and wail while he waited for me to pump enough for him to eat.

So, after all this, do you think I want to hear about someone who "doesn't feel comfortable" watching him eat?

I thought of this article today as I was breastfeeding my daughter on a bus stop bench, with my 3 year old son sat beside me. I wondered, is this the time or place? It was 2:00, so the time seemed appropriate enough (I stand to be corrected though), but the place I was unsure of. I could have hidden under the bench, or maybe pitched a quick tent to hide in just in case I caused any offence to those passing. But then again, there was a news stand behind me that had magazines with lots of fleshy breasts on show, so if it is breasts that offend I can only imagine the uproar that will ensue when people offended by me breastfeeding see that!! But I digress, my daughter was hungry, I was at the bus stop, my breasts happened to be right on my chest, so I figured there's no time like the present and no place better than here to feed her. I suppose I could have let her cry while I searched frantically for an appropriate place to feed, with my 3 year old in tow, possibly I could find a smelly bathroom to feed in, or maybe there was a dark alley I could skulk away to and feed her there, it would keep my dirty little secret hidden.

I'd also like to add on the original articles point about feeding your baby being intimate. I assume it's the same with bottles then? Or is it only intimate for mothers who breastfeed? Maybe all babies should be hidden very far away during all feeding rituals. I'll think twice next time I hand my child a cracker! I wish the market would design special cracker eating ponchos for babies and small children to wear over their heads during that intimate moment of cracker consumption. I mean aren't mouths really for kissing? I can't separate mouths used for kissing with mouths used for eating. It's just too much for my brain to take in. All body parts should have only one major function. Now excuse me, I need to breastfeed my daughter. I like to do it lying on the grass in the nude for all to see me.

Good lord. I had a nursing cover and I fed my kids when theyneeded to be fed. I was discreet because that's how *I* wanted it. No need to create attention since its pretty damn obvious what's going on. Agree with the person who said if you can figure out a woman is breastfeeding versus just holding her baby, you are looking TOO LONG. Get that she's trying to feed her baby and move along. Big freaking deal.

Hot topic! I breast fed all my children. However, I was discreet and tried to find a private area to do so if I was out in public and I always covered up. My children didn't care if I was at a table filled with adults or in a private setting. I was more comfortable doing it this way, out of public view, therefore, the experience was better for my children to have a relaxed mother. That doesn't mean that all women are like me though. In re: women who 'whip it out' are just looking for attention: what about couples who 'make out' or rub against each other in public with children present? Where's the outcry over them? How about men who scratch in all their private areas or don't bathe? How about teenagers or young adults who show their underwear? I find this more respulsive and offensive than an exposed breast being used for its' intended purpose. I hate when society demonizes and bullies mothers with babies. If you don't like it, turn away. I don't see women running topless through malls or at restaurants so all this BS about its' prevelence.

I really wish park districts and businesses would wise up that most children now are getting the benefit of the breast and learn to accomodate their customers - those who breastfeed and those who don't want to see it - by having areas reserved for this purpose. However, until this time comes, guess what, babies are part of this world and breasts are used to give children the best start in life. Get over it!

Ok, is this really a topic? It is allowed by law, and it is also a natural part of life. I am sorry for those that are offended by women breastfeeding in public, but get over it. One time while my daughter was about 3 months old. My wife breastfed her at Wriggly Field during the game. She was discreet and covered our daughter with a blanket. My wife is a little more modest than some. And guess what? We were filmed on T.V. by WGN while she was breastfeeding, nobody knew the difference. It was wonderful and we will always have that memory !

I just want to say Thank You to everyone for your comments and opinions on this issue. As Kathy says above, it's a hot topic and I have enjoyed reading all of the different takes on the subject.

What a strange way to start a post as breastfeeding has not always been a "tricky subject," it's only been an issue since the widespread use of formula, prior to that, the vast majority of moms breastfed (anywhere and everywhere, without issue), and the children whose moms didn't breastfeed had wet-nurses breastfeeding them. My son has never tolerated being covered up, I have nursed him anywhere and everywhere: shopping, in restaurants, in class (as a grad student), in church, and while leading Board meetings. Only once have I "flashed" anyone, and that was this week (14 months into nursing), when he was distracted for less than 2 seconds (just when someone looked over). Otherwise, anyone who has seen any more of my breast than they would if I wasn't nursing, was working very hard to get a glimpse. So I really don't get what all the fuss is about, telling women to cover up or be discrete. We don't go out of our way to show off our breasts, we just want to make sure our babies are fed in a timely manner and are putting our babies' needs before some random adult's comfort.

If breastfeeding should be allowed in public because it's natural well than why shouldn't we have sex in public because it's "natural"??? It is not approiate at all!! I also agree with going to the bathroom in public, it's natural but not allowed!

Maria, you are an idiot! Comparing breastfeeding with having sex? Seriously?? You are right, having sex in public is not APPROPRIATE at all, but comparing that with breastfeeding is comparing apples and oranges. And somebody already responded about going to the bathroom in public, people do and they use PUBLIC restrooms.

Thought this interesting discussion was OVER! Maria S., just have to say that your input is well appreciated. I still believe for the most part, people in our great country have good taste and know how to behave in public. It is ashame that government has to get involved. Breast feeding.....not tata or boob feeding is a very natural act!!!

as a father to 5 children, with a wife who breastfeeds, we believe that it is a natural act that should never be discouraged. For those who think a woman;s body and God given breasts for feeding babies is "disgusting" is pathetic and a typical religious driven hypocrisy. I support the right to breast feed, and I have never, ever seen a breastfeeding woman just "whip it out" for all to see. Every breast feeding woman I have ever seen has been discreet and unless you know what you are seeing, you would never know that she was feeding her infant. Infants absolutely need to be breast fed, and those who complain about it need to mind their own business. After all, they are just tits.

As a breastfeeding mom of twins...and a mom who breastfed 3 other children...I am going to say that I feel sorry for anyone who is so ashamed of breastfeeding that they will go to any lengths to hide it. We were at Kyoto for my birthday a few months ago and as the twins were too young to leave at home (and no one to leave them with since they were all coming to Kyoto), I nursed both twins while at the restaurant...at the table...with everyone eating. No one seemed to mind...in fact, most didn't even know it was going on. I admit that I did not always feel this way. With my oldest, I got "scared" and would retreat to the bathroom to stand and nurse her in one of the stalls and then I started realizing that she has as much right to eat when she's hungry as I do. She's eating at the table and is not talking with her mouth full (a faux pas I see many, many adults do...I should hand them a blanket).

People can have their own view points about breastfeeding. If it's so "intimate" they are more than welcome to do this at home. Although, they'll find this harder and harder to do as they have more children.

And as for the comment on pumping...why should I pump when I can more easily just breastfeed? With breastfeeding, I don't need to worry about keeping the milk the right temperature, don't have to worry about it spoiling and I don't have to carry extra bottles around, worry about cleaning them, or anything.

I have never, ever "whipped 'em out" and even if I did...who cares? I don't see people hiding the bottles they use to feed their babies. If you want to equate public breastfeeding to sex, then bottles would be the equivalent of using a sex toy. Seriously.

I will continue to nurse my babies wherever and whenever. If someone is so appalled by the sight of this, they are more than welcome to go buy a "gaper cover" or a blanket and put it over their heads. The whole thing about using a "nursing cover" calls more attention to what is going on than me discreetly putting baby to breast with the use of a great nursing bra and nursing tops.

As for what to tell your children when they see a woman breastfeeding her baby? You tell them that the mom is feeding her baby. If you act like it's not a big deal (and it's really not) then they will do the same. My older 3 are used to seeing breastfeeding. They don't make a big deal of it and aside from the occasional reminder that it's not nice to stare, they are just excited that I am, apparently, not the only mom who breastfeeds. LOL

Breastfeeding is what God intended. I think Maria should only eat with chop sticks, after all it's the 21st century.

And there are feeding tubes too Maria, why even chew?

It is sad that some people feel that mothers should have to hide nursing their child. personally i try to be discreet. but i dont think women bf in public just bc they want to show off their breasts. as stated much more is shown in magazines. why should we be forced to nurse in restrooms. i have because of my shyness and not comfortable. i recently nursed in theater with cover. from now on i will not retreat. i am not going to just whip it out either but i say more power to those that can. and maria some bf babies refuse the bottle. i just wonder where you get your values from and why you have such a problem with nursing. would you like it if someone told you you must go in bathroom to feed a bottle to your baby. attitudes like yours is what slows progression of society. it is also another way vast majority of power stays in the hands of men becuase unfortunately we let things like this things that should not even be an issue divide us.

I am not as eloquent as some but i agree with a lot that has been said. i think it is sad that some people feel like bf should be hidden because the breast are viewed soley as sexual objects. we need to learn how to view them differently. when nursing there purpose is to nourish the baby not to entice men or make other women jealous or upset. i dont think as previously stated that most women just whip it out because they want attention. if the child is hungry he is hungry period. i also agree with larissa about feeding tubes. and i also appreciate the comment about interracial couples should they have stayed at home bc some had a problem with that.

And I can only wonder what happened to a person to make them think bf is "gross" or disgusting. what kind of person really thinks this? wow.

Wow! Some of these comments are pretty ignorant. I'm a mother who has breastfed and have never "whipped it out to show my goods" in public -- ridiculous -- nor have I ever seen a woman do this before. I have seen a handful of women breastfeed in public, but I never saw skin. I also wasn't looking too hard because it's really none of my business. Those who are uncomfortable with breastfeeding most likely are insecure.

I'm shocked to read that women who bare their breast while nursing are said to be attention-seeking. In my experience this is a rare occurrence–the only times I've seen a woman whip out the boob without any regard has been foreign women in which this is accepted practice in their country. I think a little respect and compassion from both sides of this debate would go a long way in keeping this from being such a huge issue. I understand how one may not wish for their young child to observe this–though I personally don't have a problem–and I can also understand how covering up can be a pain (i.e. sweaty baby). After all, an adult would never consider eating under a blanket. Why aren't we women sticking together more, rather than beating each other up for taking care of our children? That's a good thing in times of the Casey Anthony's of the world.

The Anecdotal Baby: http://theanecdotalbaby.wordpress.com