When Alex was a few weeks old we went out to dinner to celebrate my niece's 6th birthday. Alex and I were still struggling with breastfeeding and it sometimes required latching and re-latching numerous times before we got things right. Needless to say it is hard to be discreet when you are so focused on basic mechanics.
I settled myself down at the end of the table bench and started nursing. Imagine my horror when the magician came by to do some tricks for the birthday girl, who just so happened to be sitting next to me. All eyes in my direction, photos being taken... here I am trying to keep the receiving blanket in the right place, while trying to see if Alex is still feeding or has fallen asleep (as she had the tendency to do) or has fallen off entirely. My worst nightmare...
Next day I went online to find a solution and came across 'Hooter Hiders' or 'Bebe au Lait' (the name I prefer). I bought one that week and it has made me entirely comfortable nursing in public. The best thing about it is your ability to see your baby nursing while being entirely discreet.
Now don't get me wrong - I don't believe Mothers NEED to cover up to nurse in public. But when you are struggling with breastfeeding it can be just the thing you need to give you confidence to leave the house - which is critical to your sanity. Now that Alex and I have found our groove I don't use it that often, but I like having it in my diaper bag for those times when I need to nurse but am feeling a little shy.
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