Psycho-Social Influences About Breastfeeding In Public

Jade also experienced psycho-social influences about breastfeeding in public. She felt her busy lifestyle and embarrassment about exposing her breasts influenced the way she positioned herself during breastfeeding. She describes," In town I would sit in my car with an awkward pillow because I felt so embarrassed and uncomfortable about feeding in public…. Having larger breasts doesn't help either". Embarrassment is a common problem experienced by breastfeeding women today (Amir, 2014). According to Amir (2014) many cultures are still caught in the conflict of breastfeeding in public, which is exacerbated by sexual stereotyping of the breast. Subsequently, on a regular basis we are hearing public debate about mothers who are told to cover up their breasts, leading to …show more content…
In Jades case, she was determined to breastfeed despite previous experiences of mastitis which was emotionally distressing for her. Despite her predisposition to mastitis probable causes for re-developing mastitis were, inefficient milk removal from incorrect positioning and/or bacterial infection. The midwife provided Jade with appropriate management and adequate support when she developed mastitis. More importantly, a detailed history and observation of a full breastfeed were essential components in the support that were provided to Jade which identified the underlying breastfeeding issues. This constant support and education provided by the midwife and lactation consultant throughout Jades experience enabled her to continue breastfeeding her baby. However, as highlighted to effectively support women breastfeeding education needs to start in the antenatal period. This was an underlying discrepancy for Jade, as she felt that very little antenatal education was discussed (providing her with necessary knowledge) therefore reducing the risk of re-developing