As a society, we often find ourselves in the midst of controversy, with different opinions on what is considered “right” or “acceptable”. One topic that has sparked heated debates is breastfeeding in public. Trinati, a mother with over 7,000 followers on Instagram, shared a photo of herself breastfeeding her daughter inside a Costco in 2017. This photo received a mix of feedback, showcasing the varied opinions on this subject.
Breastfeeding is an essential part of nourishing a baby, providing them with numerous benefits such as a strong emotional bond with their mother and a healthy immune system. However, for various reasons, some individuals feel uncomfortable or even angry when witnessing breastfeeding in public. Despite this, Trinati remains steadfast in her decision to breastfeed her 17-month-old daughter wherever they may be, ensuring her child’s needs are met.
Trinati explained that she asked her son to take the photo because she wanted to capture the lengths mothers go to in order to care for their children. She acknowledges that not everyone can understand the endurance required to breastfeed, dealing with nipple-pinching and acrobatic positions while nourishing their child. Trinati has encountered strange glances and awkward giggles from people who see her daughter standing on her lap while breastfeeding, sometimes on one leg!
Although Trinati faces criticism from the public, she also receives teasing from her loved ones about breastfeeding until her daughter is in Kindergarten. However, these comments do not discourage her because she is determined to breastfeed for as long as her daughter needs it. She aims to challenge the negativity surrounding breastfeeding in public, countering arguments that it is inappropriate or sexualizing. Trinati humorously points out that her breastfeeding breasts do not resemble anything someone would fantasize about, emphasizing that they are solely for nourishing and comforting her child.
Trinati also sheds light on other moms who have spoken up about breastfeeding in public and shared their own pictures. She firmly believes that her baby’s needs come before anyone’s attempts to make her feel inappropriate for feeding and comforting her children. These acts of nourishment are both physical and emotional, ensuring that her child feels loved and cared for.
Breastfeeding provides countless benefits for both the baby and the mother. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breastfeeding can reduce the risk of certain illnesses for mothers, such as ovarian and breast cancer, and type 2 Diabetes. Celebrities like Chrissy Teigen, Olivia Munn, Ronda Rousey, and Vanessa Morgan have shown solidarity with moms like Trinati, standing up for their right to breastfeed in public.
The controversy surrounding breastfeeding, particularly in public, has left many exhausted. However, mothers continue to speak up, asserting their rights to feed their children in the way they see fit. It is important to recognize and support mothers who choose to breastfeed, creating an environment where they feel comfortable and empowered to care for their children wherever they may be.
