The normalization of public breastfeeding has become a topic so deeply criticized by the general public, that few people can actually see the greater lesson beneath the topic itself. Supporter or not it is important to realize that breastfeeding is a self-guided decision of the woman feeding her child. Just as our first amendment secures the right to freely express one’s opinion and my right to freely write this article on breastfeeding. Many state laws, depending on where you live, secure a woman’s right to publically nurse her child. Additionally, such laws prohibit individuals, including myself, to prevent a woman from nursing her child. While many laws secure a woman’s right to publicly breastfeed, criticism reigns high, lording over social media as well as public spaces to condemn nursing mothers feeding their children. Those who simply remain polite and respectful to a mother feeding her child possess a very rare sense of maturity that is lacking in our society today. Even so, I am still respectful of those who share their opinion on a matter that is still within public reach. Law is a law and therein lies a flurry of ethical reasons as well as some scientific motivations as to why certain laws protect a breastfeeding mother.

There is scientific reasoning as to why a mother may choose to keep her child’s head uncovered during nursing. According to the UC Davis Medical Center, full immersion of touch during breastfeeding, unrestricted by a blanket or cover, allows a baby to bond much more easily than if the child was to be completely covered. Moreover, the topic of partial exposure of skin brings up the question of whether a mother staying at home to feed her child, rather than feed her child within a park, restaurant or a school. Various anecdotes, submitted online by mothers sharing their personal experiences, prove that life may not be simple enough to account for such reasoning. Many mothers might juggle work or errands, and they often must carry their child with them as they complete even day to day tasks.

In addition, just like anyone with a busy schedule, require regular meals. I personally doubt that a mother could let a baby cry or go unfed if only for the sake of needing to play hide and seek to feed her child in a socially acceptable manner.

In regard to the social response to breastfeeding, women often face pressure and occasional disapproval for not covering up. I do not agree, and feel it is the mother’s personal to either use a blanket or simply go without. Many women have varying levels of comfort, which they are allowed to openly express, especially when they are doing something as important as feeding a hungry child. While it is understandable for someone to feel a bit uncomfortable in the moment, it is a natural process. At times, I myself may feel uncomfortable. Nevertheless, it is far from impossible to simply look away, not stare, or just maintain a respectful attitude regardless. After all, breasts serve a biological function that women should not be criticized for as a result of society’s sexual misconceptions. It would be just as irrational to criticize someone for eating a sandwich at the beach as it would be to criticize a mother who feeds her child at the very same establishment.