5 of 8

No

Write now Article Tools

In answering the question "should women be allowed to breastfeed in public areas", one first has to closely and carefully examine all aspects of how the breastfeeding will be conducted while in public, before moving to a confirmed and definitive opinion related to yes or no.

The question is broad on both sides of the spectrum, thus opening up debate (for and against) such a practice while in public. I would like to introduce two specific examples here to differentiate between a strong case for yes, and a strong case for no.

Let me introduce example A. (Mom A) senses it's time to breastfeed her baby and rather than move to a private area out of the view of the general public, (mom A) decides to carry out the actions of breastfeeding her baby in plain view of the public eye, without attempting to wrap, cover, or conceal what she is doing in any way. In this case my vote is no. Reason being there is a time and a place for everything, and although breastfeeding may be considered by many to be a natural mothering action related to the care of a baby, the general public in no way should have to endure having to watch or tolerate such an action against their will. In plain simple terms just as a mother has a right to breastfeed, the public also has a right to not view such.

Now let's take a look at example B. (Mom B) decides that the time has come to feed her baby but rather than put herself on public display for all to see, (mom B) decides to move to a private area "away from the eye of the general public" in order to breastfeed her baby. In this case my vote is yes. (Mom B) in my opinion did the respectful, responsible, courteous, and proper thing (etiquette wise).

I believe "lack of respect" for others is where this issue goes wrong so often. We all have rights.

Learn more about this author, Barb Tidewell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Should women be allowed to breastfeed in public areas??
We want to hear your view. Write now!