Breastfeeding in Public

Breastfeeding is natural, but it is also a learned, social behaviour. In order to truly support breastfeeding in our culture we all need to see breastfeeding as a part of daily life. It is beautiful to see mother and child interactions in public that are nurturing.

As a breastfeeding mother, when you make breastfeeding more visible in public spaces you are creating change for yourself and for others. Women learn about breastfeed by seeing other women breastfeeding. You are an important role model for others, particularly pregnant mothers, newcomers, young girls and teens.

Research shows that the duration of breastfeeding increases significantly for women who feel comfortable breastfeeding in public. As the duration of breastfeeding increases, research has also shown that the work load of the emergency department and strain on the health care system decreases. Breastfeeding can increase your sense of self-reliance. As a mother who feels comfortable with your breastfeeding child in public spaces, you are less likely to feel house-bound, which reduces your risk of postnatal depression and the need for medical attention.

Breastfeeding in all public spaces is protected under the Human Rights Commission of Saskatchewan and of Canada. Saskatoon Breastfeeding Matters has created the Breastfeeding Protection Pledge to help businesses take an active role in protecting mothers’ rights to breastfeed.

Saskatoon Breastfeeding Matters - www.saskatoonbreastfeedingmatters.ca