Outlaws no more, breastfeeding mothers get legal protection
By Martin Finucane, Globe Staff
They won't be outlaws anymore. Mothers who want to breastfeed their children in public are getting legal protection under a new state law that goes into effect Thursday.
The law, "An Act to Promote Breastfeeding," was passed last year and signed earlier this year by Governor Deval Patrick.
Up till now, women who breastfed their babies in public could have been prosecuted for indecent exposure or lewd conduct. If convicted, they could even have been forced to register as sex offenders, proponents of the bill said.
The new law authorizes breastfeeding in public places and makes it clear it is not illegal.
"This law is a long time in coming. The idea behind this law is to make sure that women who want to breastfeed their children aren't prevented from doing that. And the message should go out that security guards and storekeepers and even police officers don't have the right to prevent a woman from breastfeeding her child," said Representative David Linsky, a Natick Democrat who backed the bill.
State Senator Susan Fargo, a Lincoln Democrat, said she was pleased to finally see passage of a bill that she first filed nine years ago.
"First of all, there are significant health benefits for mother and child," she said, emphasizing that improvements in people's health would lead to lower healthcare costs.
"There also are [legal] protections for mothers. I think that's the thing we've been fighting for for a long time," she said.
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I just don't understand why they can't breastfeed in a semi private place..I'm not suggesting the public bathroom, but perhaps businesses could add a little side room to the bathrooms for breastfeeding. I for one just don't want to see some lady's breasts hangin out. Some moms do this very discretely, but I have seen some who let it all hang out...just not necessary. And really...would it be that hard to just use a bottle when you are out in public? I mean really??
FINALLY! It is about time Massachusetts made this change! What were they waiting for?
This is a great day!! Never should a mother doing the absolute most natural thing for her and her baby be told to nurse in the bathroom or a "private" area. I have seen table manners that render me appetiteless and no one is asking those people to leave. I nursed all of my children, I was not lewd nor did I want someone to tell me to use a bottle in public, Breastfeeding is better for the baby and I shouldn't have to interupt my meal, my visit to church or anything else to run to another room because someone doens't understand BIOLOGY.
People wear low pants, I have seen GROWN men with their underpants showing...I mean really???
Disgusting. It is disgusting that our government is compelled to protect the needs of infants being fed by their mothers. It is disgusting that there are individuals out there who find something so natural offensive. And really....would it be that hard to just look away? I mean really??
YAY! never mind 9 years of waiting for this law; I wanted this law back in 1982 when people told me to breastfeed in the BATHROOM of a McDonalds can you imagine?
BM: if you don't like it, turn your head away. I hate it when men pick their nose while driving; as if we can't see.
I have seen women in public places with BOTH breats exposed nursing three year olds when I had a six year old with me. That is a discussion I would not have preferred to have with her at that age. I don't understand why a woman would nurse (or bottle feed) a three year old to begin with. Regardless I think breast feeding should be done in a semi-private place or at least discreetly- cover yourself with a blanket and bare one breast at a time. Also urination is a "natural" function but I prefer not to see someone doign that in public either.
Most moms I know (me included) would be happy to use a breastfeeding room if it existed. I'd much prefer to be discreet if possible. But since most businesses don't have such a room, I'm glad to know I don't have to worry about registering as a sex offender because my son got hungry.
And no, it isn't that hard to use a bottle when I'm out in public. But then I'd have to pump while I'm out in public (most moms of young babies find they need to nurse or pump every 3 - 4 hours - it is painful to skip a feeding!) and trust me, you'd rather I nurse in public than pump in public.
Yes, it *is* that hard to "just use a bottle" in public. Or anywhere for that matter when you are breastfeeding. Many exclusively breastfed infants will not take a bottle, only the breast. But I do think that some women should be more sensitive about covering up and being discrete. Women should be able to breastfeed in public, but it is possible to do it in a discrete way-- at least most of the time. And I think women should be as discrete as possible, within reason.
Um, yeah, it would be difficult to use a bottle in public. My children were all breastfed, not bottle fed. Meaning they don't take bottles, they refused them. Women who breastfeed don't show any more skin that the 15 year old girl in the mall. If you don't like it, don't look! But your missing out on the sweetest act EVER!
Property owners should still be allowed to insist on discretion - sit in the back of a crowd, turn away, position a blanket, etc. Sure, breastfeeding is a good thing - doesn't mean you don't need to be polite about it.
About time!!!!!!
BM - would it be so hard to look in another direction? Breastfeeding is essential to healthy child development. It's your culturally assigned, artificial, drummed-in disgust at the female body that's unhealthy. Cure yourself - or carry a book, so you can have something else to look at.
BM, use a bottle when out in public? Women who feel so strongly about breastfeeding, like myself, we dont use bottles AT ALL! Breastmilk coming directly from the breast is the #1 best option for a child (not pumped milk, and god forbid, formula), and im glad that we finally have protection under the law from ignorant people such as yourself who think its as simple as using a BOTTLE while in public. WOW.
My son is 14 months old, and he still nurses on demand, and he sometimes needs to nurse even more when we are out in public because he feels overwhelmed and tired from running errands. So now I can feed my child IN PEACE without ignorant people thinking im a sicko, because the government now protects us.
That we need a bill like this just shows how ignorant society can be. A woman's breasts were made to nourish her children. It is unfortunate that many see them strictly as sexual objects and would deny a child something that is so good and so natural.
I can't imagine why a person would find it distasteful or upsetting to watch a child being nursed. It's actually lovely, but if you're uncomfortable, look away - and no one has ever been forced to watch while a mother nurses her child as far as I know.
And yes, sometimes it is impossible to use a bottle. Not every baby will take a bottle if they are nursed.
I think everybody should just get over it.It is a natural act, and shouldnt we get away from this false moralizing, turning an ordinary act into a crime ? Whats next, chewing with your mouth open?
Breastfeeding is healthiest for the baby. It's not damaging to anyone to see a glimpse of breast from a nursing mother. I think its just like going to the beach and seeing some people (men and women) wearing swim suits with less coverage than you'd prefer. Some people will be more discrete than others, like you said. I agree that having a semi private area for nursing mothers to comfortably nurse would be great for those who prefer that. The great thing about breastfeeding is that you don't have to worry about bottled milk getting spoiled before the baby can drink it. It's more portable and safe. I'm glad the law is going into effect, I can't believe it wasn't a law before.
BM,
I am sure most mothers would choose a private or semi-private place if they have the choice. Often, they don't, and a hungry baby should not have to wait because of your uneasiness. If you cannot realize that breastfeeding is a natural thing, and if you are too uptight about a mother giving breast milk to a baby, don't look!
PS: Mothers breastfeeding are not “hanging out” their breast. Saying this is more than rudeness, it is stupidity.
I appreciate your concerns. But, yes, it would really be that hard to use a bottle out in public, and here's why: (1) using a bottle instead of breastfeeding contributes to a lowered supply in mom (the baby needs to nurse to keep up supply); (2) using a bottle means that the mom also needs to pump at that time so the body knows to continue to produce milk (talk about something that's more comfortable in private!); (3) babies used to breastfeeding may be distressed by being fed bottles, especially by their moms (and are more likely to scream publicly); and (4) babies used to breastfeeding may actually overeat with a bottle because they can't control what they're getting--so, making them overweight, increasing their stomach size, and increasing their needs beyond what mom has naturally.
If a mom always uses a bottle, great, that's how she should feed her baby and no one should look twice! If a mom always nurses, it's great that there are now protections out there--so, hopefully, soon no one will be doing a double-take with a nursing mom either.
I just finished up breastfeeding for 13 months. And going out in public was a challenge. I had to go out a lot. And, nurse my child every 2 hours in the beginning. I tried at the mall in one of those massage chairs. Very discrete but it was hard. I felt eyes on me. You never saw my breasts either... just a baby's head at the area.
Why do you give a hoot? Why are you looking at me... mind your own business and shop. I'm not bothering you...
FYI- Many breastfed babies reject the bottle, especially when given by the mother. With both my kids, I tried the bottle when out in public only to search frantically with a *screaming* baby for a rest room... which aren't always easy to find. To be honest, it was easier to not do a bottle as I was uncomfortable if feedings were missed. To explain the pain and discomfort of engorgement to someone who has never breast fed, and it sounds like that is the case with BM, it's like having to go to the bathroom after drinking 2 giant "Slurpies" and being forced to hold it for hours. Horray for change!! It is VERY overdue.
It's hard to use a bottle because the milk isn't expressed yet. It's in your breasts! So... that's why it's hard to use a bottle BM.
Of course it should be realized that if the breastfeeding takes place in Brookline, the mother must post the calorie content of the milk.
Well, BM have you tried pumping your breast milk into a bottle? It isn't easy for everyone, especially to make it more comfortable for everyone else.. Breast feeding is natural! The way it's supposed to be!!! i wish I had breatsfed mine longer! I suppose you still drink cows milk too? And that's o.k.? to cruelly treat another species for it's breastmilk that they make for their babies?
I'm glad to see this law has finally taken affect. Mothers who are breastfeeding are providing there babies with a healthy start and promote a strong mother/child bond and should be supported, not discouraged and embarrassed for a very natural, loving part of parenting.
And really, yes it is that much harder to use a bottle out it public. It can take over an hour for a new mother to pump enough breastmilk for a 4-8 ounce bottle, then store it, pack in to maintain freshness, and find a suitable place to warm the bottle if needed. And many babies who are exclusively nursed refuse a bottle, especially newborns. So, perhaps a better solution if you have a problem with nursing mothers would be to kindly avert your eyes if you see a mother struggling to keep covered while trying to soothe and nourish her baby.
Personally, I had a hard time breast feeding and ended up doing both breast and bottle, which worked great for me AND my children. I almost always felt uncomfortable breastfeeding in public ... especially thanks to people like BM. BM, do you realize that many mothers exclusively breastfeed? That means their child will not take a bottle. So yes, it really is that hard to use a bottle in public for some moms/babes.
BM, yes, it will be that hard to use a bottle when you are out in public. At least you are not suggesting babies eat in bathrooms. Just to give you an idea, some places don't even have a place to change the babies diaper. I've had, in more than one occasion, to change my daughter in the floor in a public bathroom ( I do have a little mat to put in the floor but still..) so I really don't think businesses are going to provide places for moms to breastfeed.
Most moms don't let "everything hang out" anyway. People can see more in the tv, movies, beach, etc. honestly. I don't get why is so hard for people to understand that this is the way nature intended it to be and the benefits it gives both to mother and child.
I've been to plenty of countries and no one bats an eye when a woman is breastfeeding. We seem to be the only culture that does not understand this is a natural thing. Only in America breastfeeding moms are tried to be shame. It is sad really that a law has to pass so women can feed their babies in the first place.. honestly! !
if you are going to breastfeed in public, for gosh sakes, get yourself a "hooter hider." It is like a showercurtin for your chest and it works wonders.
Yes, it's that hard to use a bottle. The AAP recommends that babies receive nothing but breast milk for a minimum of 6 months and not every mom has the time or ability to pump milk to put into a bottle for the sole purpose of making other ADULTS comfortable. 99% of breastfeeding mothers show so little skin that most people don't even know they are breastfeeding. If a small sliver of breast skin offends you so much then really, just look away. I assume you'll also be looking away from TV, magazine covers, and the internet as well. Lots of breasts "hangin out" there.
I find it amazing time had to be spent passing a law to allow a woman to nurture her child in a manner that is as old as our species. As to a womens choice of modesty that's none of our business.
I think it's about time this law was passed! It's ridiculous that a BF mother could have been prosecuted for lewd acts.
For the PP, in the early months of BF it is recommended not to give a child a bottle. And why should a mother have to switch the way she feeds her baby because YOU feel uncomfortable. How about averting your eyes/look the other way. There are plenty of advertisements out there..and for that matter, plenty of teen agers at the mall who are more "lewd" than a bf mother. Get a grip!
Hey BM, I think this law was passed for people just like you! Stop being so hung up and just don't look.
Massachusetts should be ashamed it took this long for it to pass a law!
I would LOVE it if they built private little rooms that were more sanitary to feed a baby in! You think that the mothers enjoy having to feed their precious baby in a public area? With hundreds of onlookers? If you don't want to risk the chance of seeing a womans breast in the process of delivering nurishment to a baby than I suggest you look the other way! There is no one making you stare in her direction! And just so you know...most breast fed babies will NOT accept a bottle from their mother!
BM obviously does not have children nor knows someone who breastfeeds their child. If you are solely breastfeeding your child they just don't "take a bottle" very easily. I think 'non-parents" have lots of opinions about child rearing... just wait!
Most women who breastfeed would LOVE to have a secluded area to breastfeed. In other countries it's not uncommon for large shopping malls to even have a breastfeeding suite adjacent to restrooms with comfortable chairs and even soft music playing in the background! While this would be great to find everywhere, there's no way that is feasible. I think most women, myself included, would simply like to not be gawked at and are thankful that now it won't be illegal. As for your comment about using a bottle when you are out in public...that leads me to believe that you are definitely not a parent...or at least that you have never tried to get a baby who is breastfed to take a bottle. Believe it or not, there are many moms out there who try in vain to get their breastfed baby to take a bottle. Have some compassion for these moms -- they often feel held hostage by their own child. It is just not as easy as it sounds to get a baby to take a bottle in the first place. Just keep this in mind next time you see a mom breastfeeding in public; chances are she'd rather not be in that situation.
Yes, BM, it would be hard to use a bottle in public if you usually or exclusively breastfeed your baby. And usually breasts are not just hanging out, a baby is attached to the end doing what God/nature intended breasts to be used for. I don't advocate anyone trying to make anyone else feel uncomfortable on purpose, but let's not lose sight of what breastfeeding actually is...feeding and nurturing a baby.
BM,
I am sure most mothers would choose a private or semi-private place if they have the choice. Often, they don't, and a hungry baby should not have to wait because of your uneasiness. If you cannot realize that breastfeeding is a natural thing, and if you are too uptight about a mother giving breast milk to a baby, don't look!
PS: Mothers breastfeeding are not “hanging out” their breast. Saying this is more than rudeness, it is stupidity.
So, BM, look the other way if you are not happy with this. You are living in the dark ages.
"I for one just don't want to see some lady's breasts hangin out."
Well, you know, its all about you and your squeamishness, and your opinions should always be accommodated! Get over yourself and stop looking. If the worst thing that happens to you is you catch an occasional glimpse of a nipple, you're still doing pretty well in my book.
And no, not all babies will accept a bottle all the time. I learned this the hard way.
Yes, for some of it really is THAT hard to use a bottle every time we are in public! Have you ever tried to pump 8oz of milk from YOUR breasts?!?!? And would YOU want to eat your lunch in/next to a public restroom? I think not. 99% of breast feeding moms do try to be discreet. A few don't care. But, also think that the mom you see "with her breasts hanging out" might be a new mom just learning how to breast feed. Give her a break. She is trying to do the best she can for her newborn. If it offends you, look away.
It is about time! I cannot believe mothers were not permitted to feed their children in public before this was passed! Breastfeeding is the "normal" food for babies and after all, we are mammals, aren't we? If people are offended or uncomfortable with a nursing mom, it is their problem, not the mother's.
These are our roots more fundamental than most any other, a close second to birth. We are all card carrying mammals so deal with it. Yes, women can be demur about it (most that I know are and it is preferable), but always give them the benefit of the doubt. I mean, of all the things to worry about in this world, providing species-specific milk to our offspring should not be of great negative concern nor suppressed. And bottles are only good for a limited time once made; Germs start to grow. Who are you to question, in this department? Really.
@BM - It's really hard to use a bottle when the baby isn't trained to use a bottle.
A lot of breast fed babies won't take a bottle. And even if they do, then we have to pack a bottle and warm it, when we have it all ready to go if we breastfeed. If you don't like it, don't look. So I mean... really? YEAH, REALLY.
Women who breastfeed are feeding their baby. Bottom line. So whether they are using a bottle or their breast, it shouldn't matter. If you know babies, it doesn't matter where you are or what time of day it is, if a baby is hungry, you feed him/her with whatever method you have decided is in the best interest of your child. If it is your breast, you use it. A bottle, that's fine too. Your question on asking a breastfeeding woman to use a bottle is ignorant. Would you ask a bottle-feeding woman the same question?
BM, if businesses had these places, I would use them, but most don't. Babies R us has a mother's room, but most places just wouldn't think of that. I can't even change my baby in all restrooms when we go out! No freakin' changing table! Also, no I can't always use a bottle! When I exclusively breast fed, I couldn't pump enough breast milk to feed the baby, the pump just doesn't work as well as a baby does! I buy nursing shirts and bras so that I can breastfeed discreetly. My baby has to eat just like you. And no, I will not do it in a bathroom! Is that where you want to eat your lunch? This law makes sense. Nursing mothers aren't being lewd; we are feeding our kids!
BM- what's a mother to do when she is out shopping and needs to feed her child? There aren't many public places that have a room for mothers to feed their babies. No one would eat their dinner in a public bathroom, so we shouldn't expect mothers to feed their vulnerably-immune babies there either. Unfortunately, our society is so screwed up that no one has an issue of a woman wears a shirt that has her "breasts hanging out" as you so ineloquently phrased it. But god forbid a mother uses her breasts as nature intended- to feed her child. The point of breastfeeding is to NOT use a bottle.
Dear BM,
Breast-feeding is one of the most magical things that a woman can do second only to bringing life into this world. Every two hours for a half hour finding a semi-private spot for the first and most important year isn't as easy as it sounds and withdraws the woman from social activities as well as the baby. How to go about this is thankfully not your choice for a woman to make for her child. I proudly breast-feed in public and while I try to be somewhat discreet you can be sure that you are not my first thought. The very continuum of our species as happy, healthy, and well adjusted is. Breast-feeding isn't about just nourishing a child, it is about nurturing. A bottle can hardly accomplish that. Thank goodness this law has passed so that women can be proud to nurture the next generation, as women have for centuries, in a way that builds their esteem and forges a new era of healthier (emotionally and physically) human beings. Thank goodness not everyone in the US has such a dim understanding of breast-feeding and values such a narrow idea of prudishness over the well-being of our children. Thank you to Susan Fargo and all the supporters for this common-sense law.
BM-
I'm going to go out on a limb and assume you are either a man or a woman with no kids. Yes it is hard to use a bottle out in public. If you are breastfeeding your child exclusively, do you have any idea how much effort and time it takes to pump enough milk to give your child a bottle? A lot! And many women choose to either use that precious milk so their husband/partner can do a nightfeed allowing them to get more sleep or save the milk to give to their child when they return to work. If you don't like it, quit staring! What is "not necessary" are your ignorant comments.
You cannot switch back and forth between breastfeeding and bottlefeeding as it confuses the infant. Breastfeeding is not easy as it is, many moms give up in frustration because of the difficulty. Please have respect for these women, they are just trying to start their children's lives off right.
Yes, BM, it WOULD be hard to use a bottle if you are a mom who is nursing -- and what's the point? Why should I pump at home just so that you can be more comfortable? I don't know what you are talking about "breasts hanging out." I have never seen a woman breastfeed in a public place that wasn't as discreet as possible.
Your suggestion is a good one -- IF businesses made it a priority to provide "mother's rooms" but I can only think of one that does: Babies R Us. In the meantime, this law is a good start.
I agree. Why should the rest of us have to be subjected to this? Does this mean I could be sitting on the T and some breeder is going to whip it out and start feeding her damn baby? And what about restaurants? Do I have to watch someone breastfeeding while I'm trying to enjoy my martii and my $50 porterhouse medium rare?
I agree. Why should the rest of us have to be subjected to this? Does this mean I could be sitting on the T and some breeder is going to whip it out and start feeding her damn baby? And what about restaurants? Do I have to watch someone breastfeeding while I'm trying to enjoy my martini and my $50 porterhouse medium rare?
Yes, it is hard to "just use a bottle" for a lot of reasons some of the big ones are: a) baby may not accept a bottle b) mother is still making milk and needs baby to feed so that she doesn't get uncomfortably full, c) If you don't nurse regularly you risk engorgement and mastitis (which really hurts) d) if you don't nurse regularly your milk supply goes down e) if you don't nurse regularly you will start leaking all over your shirt f) Pumping is really time consuming and monotonous and a lot to ask of busy mothers of newborns just to please strangers. So, as you can see, it's a bit simplistic to say "just use a bottle".
s
Yes it is so hard to just give a bottle in public. Some infants will not take a bottle when they are breastfeeding. It is a long and slong process to add the bottle especially having a baby take it from the mother. So they should just stay home for the 3 plus months it can takes to add the bottle. And what about how long it can take to pump breast milk. We should sit at the pump for hours to get just a few ounces. Sometimes pumping doesn't work at all. So we shouldn't go out until our child has been weened.
I agree with only one thing you said that it can be done discretely. But this can be done wthout shoving us off to a side room.
Fantastic, this law has been a long time coming. I never felt more alienated then when I was breastfeeding hopefully other mothers won't have to feel this way because of this law.
A nursing mother in direct physical contact with her suckling infant! The horror!
The only place that I have seen a nursing mother with a breast "hangin out" (as "BM" put it) was in Rome, in the Vatican Museum. No one in the crowded gallery seemed to give her public breast-feeding a second thought. Tsk, tsk, tsk, those Europeans. Or perhaps, being in close proximity to a Renaissance portrait of the Madonna and Child they, like me, realized that the bond between she and her infant was imbued with simple and tender grace.
Ummm.... I am assuming you are a guy or a woman without any children... Yes is is hard to use a bottle when you are out in public! Every piece of literature a new mother reads is about how nursing is the best option and that your child should be drinking breastmilk through at least six months. Add to that the recommendations not to introduce the bottle until after at least a month as well as your baby's then, refusal, to take anything by mom's breast. We would like to get out too and do some shopping, take a walk, whatever.... If you notice someone's "breasts hanging out", look away! I am sure if it were a hot young lady with a teeny bikini, your attitude would be slightly different...
BM, I wish you luck if/when the bf moms read your comment. They are going to spend a lot of time roasting you slowly over a spit!
I completely agree that this law was a long time coming. I mean, really, arrest and charge a woman for breastfeeding in public? Having to register as a sex offender? Puhleez.
However, breastfeeding can be done in public without offending anyone. But, ultimately, if someone is offended, they can look the other way. I would never suggest that the mom bottle feed their infant. It just isn't necessary. Personally, I alwasy used a fitting room if my kids had an unscheduled need. BUT, that was my choice and should not be a requirement.
It is offensive to request that nursing mothers "just use a bottle." Breast milk is optimal for baby's health, yet I'm supposed to pump it (which isn't fun) and put it in a bottle because it makes people uncomfortable for me to feed my baby naturally? Breastfeeding can be done very discreetly; I always am covered. But that shouldn't be my primary concern - keeping my baby fed should be. Anyone worried about mothers letting their breasts "hang out" should just take a walk down Lansdowne Street -- nobody seems to complain about the excessive cleavage sightings there. It's ridiculous that we need a law for this. But we do.
BM - perhaps it is your own personal aversion or fear of breasts that makes you so uncomfortable? I am not disguisted by your hand holding a fork in a restaurant, or your tongue moving food around in your mouth, so why on earth should you be so afraid of simply another body part, made exclusively for the nourishment of babies, doing it's God-given job? If it bothers you so much, don't gawk! And are you seriously so selfish and such a prude to demand that a nursing mother pump her milk, package it in a bottle, and then somehow find a way to bring it to temperature when she's out with her baby just for your personal comfort? Get over yourself!
^^^
Breastfeeding Moms try to refrain from using a bottle so not to cause nipple confusion. Plus some Moms aren't into pumping milk or supplementing with formula. They have every right to feed their baby in whatever fashion makes THEM comfortable- not others around them. More boobage is exposed on Magazine covers and billboards than a woman nursing. Even if a woman's breast is exposed a bit too much for your liking- turn and look the other way. It's simple.
I understand your argument, BM, and I'm sure there are a few women who have no problem whipping them out for all to see. But, I think this is a really good and important hurdle for women to finally be able to overcome. It's so completely natural for a woman to feed her baby, in the manner in which it was first intended. I agree that women should be more discreet if they're going to be doing it in public, but if they're out and about with the baby and it gets hungry, are they supposed to let it scream? Or are they supposed to tote around extra stuff in order to get the kid fed? It seems easier and so much more natural to just use the bottles nature provided - and I'm sure it's better for the kid in the end.
BM~
I am curious, what do you think breasts are for? Women have breasts to feed babies! At what point did it become offensive to people. Let's face it, you see more of a women's breast in a Victoria Secret display then you do when a women is nursing. I nursed my daughter and tried to be "discrete" in public. However, I don't feel discretion is necessary and women should not have to use a bottle to make others feel comfortable! If you find the act of breastfeeding offensive, then don't look!
Really? It's easy to see who has breastfed and who hasn't. No, you can't just use a bottle when you want to.The law is justified.
BM: It is ridiculous for you to suggest breastfeeding mothers "just use a bottle" because you would be more comfortable with that! It's not about you! It's about mothers providing nourishment for their babies. Some mothers are committed to breastfeeding and never bottle feed, and they shouldn't be pressured to do so in order to please others. Bravo Governor Patrick!
BM, yes, there are some mothers who "let it all hang out" as you say. But do you get just as upset as those overweight men who display their beer guts for all to see during the warm summer months? Not many stores have the resources to have a dedicated breastfeeding room. And I personally would not want to have to eat MY meals "just off the bathroom" -- which is precisely what you are suggesting these babies do. And as someone who did nurse her child, I can tell you that if the baby does NOT nurse (and instead takes a bottle for that particular meal) milk is still produced by the mother's body, and swollen breasts are very uncomfortable and can lead to painful infections. Bottles can't be used interchangeably with regular nursing (unless the mother pumps regularly). Bottles also require a lot more effort to keep the formula at the right temperature. And we won't get into the fact that when an infant is hungry, it simply can't wait 15 minutes until Mom has found a "proper" place to nurse.
How much money was spent trying to get this bill passed into legislation. Now I don't want to see someone breastfeeding...but you know what....I'm not sure myself or too many people are going to call in security on someone who is. I'd like to see how many women were charged with lewd conduct in the last 5 years. This is a complete waste of time, money and energy. Hopefully millions are sleeping better tonight because of this.
From BM: And really...would it be that hard to just use a bottle when you are out in public? I mean really??
I'm a new father of a 9 mo old girl. I ride a hog, saw Bird play, have been pulling for the patties since steve was slinging, and my grandfather passed while extoling the pedro signing.
The answer is yes, it is. You'll have to get over it man. Unless you'd rather hear them roar - once they're used to the breast, they dont much like the bottle.
How ignorant are you, to just use a bottle when out in public! Breast feeding is the best possible thing for babies, so why should we compromise so you do not have to see something hang out, turn the other way and stop checking us out! Do you really think we love to nurse in public, we do it for our babies and think about them first.
BM do you have the same reaction when you walk by a magazine rack in a bookstore/convenience story and see breasts hanging out of fitness magazines and copies of Maxim? And, when you see something you don't like (people making out, plumber's crack, breasts hanging out... whatever), can't you just turn your head? Most breastfeeding mothers DO try to be discrete, and some choose not to use bottles for very valid reasons (such as nipple confusion in young babies) or sometimes a bottle is not an option. As a breastfeeding mother, I can assure you it is much less stressful to be able to give a hungry baby a bottle while in public as opposed to stressing about finding a place to feed the baby that is appropriate, immediately available and won't offend anyone. A bottle is just easier than the stress. But sometimes you do just need to nurse the baby. I am glad that you are not suggesting the public bathroom but in general people need to understand that when a baby needs to eat, it needs to eat. And as much as mothers try to plan, it is not always possible.
To BM - yes, it is hard to use a bottle, because babies don't want to take a bottle and will cry and fuss, and on top of it, the mother would either have to pump milk or buy formula, neither of which is easy or convenient. Women should not be expected to use a bottle if they are nursing. Discretion is fine, but if you don't like it, then look the other way.
This is such a tired argument. Yes, moms can be discreet, but seriously, how many business are going to add rooms to a bathroom? Would you eat in a room off of a bathroom? You obviously have never breastfed or pumped. It's not just as easy as "use a bottle when you're out in public." If you don't like seeing "breasts hangin out", don't look.
"significant health benefits"????
Oh, good lord.
It has been shown that masturbation in men has health benefits beyond mental. So ... clearly that should be allowed in public.
I completely agree with BM. I am tired of trying to avert my eyes when a woman is breastfeeding and being very indiscreet about it. No, you don't need to go into the public bathroom but neither do you need to whip out a breast in a crowd full of people. In a store, you could go to a quiet corner. In a restaurant, can't you go out to your car for a few minutes? And hey, what about that BOTTLE idea for the maybe ONE feeding your child is going to require while you're out?!
I think it is wonderful that breast feeding is legal, breast milk is the best milk for a childs digestion,plus the first milk passes to the infant antibodies that protect the child. The mother also benefits; her breast develop to full maturity
Having come from California before moving to Boston, I had grown quite accustomed to seeing breastfeeding in public spaces. Most women were quite discrete in that they typically draped a towel or blanket over the feeding infant and breast. Some mom's just stashed the baby inside their shirt and let the kid go to town. The result was very non-threatening and not in the slightest bit disturbing or inappropriate. Plus, breastfeeding, even when a little bit of breast is showing, is not a sexual thing and breasts are not sexual organs, so I just don't see what is the problem is with some lady's breast hanging out. Once I even shared an office with a lady who would pump several times a day. It just wasn't an issue for either of us and it was a hell of a lot nicer for her than having to go into the bathroom to pump.
Use a bottle??? Are you kidding???? Breasts are designed for feeding babies... Get over your bad self... The United States, as progressive as we seem to be, can't get over sexualizing mammary glands... What make us mammals in the first place...
It is about time that women in Massachusetts be allowed to feed their babies however they want in public places... And those that don't want to see it... DON'T LOOK!!! I certainly don't want to see many of you in public but that doesn't mean you should be banned or hidden in a corner... Just means I am responsible for myself and if I don't like something I look away or LEAVE!!!!
YAY Massachusetts!!!
Actually, it can be problematic to use a bottle if you're trying to avoid what's referred to as "nipple confusion" - where a baby will start to develop difficulty deciding between bottle and breast. (If you're not schooled in the costs of gear, let me just say that a decent breast pump can easily run you in the range of $200-300, unless you want to sit there for ages with manual pumps that cost only maybe $30-50 apiece, not including accessories.) And, as far as a breastfeeding mother goes, letting "it all hang out" may actually be necessary if you can't afford expensive nursing clothing that make it possible to breastfeed more discreetly.
Wow, bh, I'm shocked at your insensitivity. Many women *have* been made to feel uncomfortable or been asked to leave or stop. As a former nursing mother I *will* sleep better tonight knowing that Massachusetts has finally passed a law to protect women and children regarding this basic need.
I don't have an issue with breast feeding in public, it is great for the infants, key word infants. Three year olds should NOT be breast feeding still. My only issue is it is an intimate moment between mother and infant, and should be somewhat covered up. And as far as breast feeding leads to smarter kids, that is NOT true, my two kids were NOT breast fed, and are both the smartest kids in their respective grades literally. Do it, enjoy, but just try to keep somewhat covered please, cause while the cops can't press charges, regular people can still sue, but is it really worth the time.
Ladybug, you are confused about how breastfeeding actually works. I would have LOVED for my son to take an occasional bottle. Most breastfed babies just don't work that way. And often breastfed babies aren't on a schedule and it's hard to know how many feedings (bottles) would be required for a particular outing.
There are definitely some extremists who are inconsiderate and pop things out to offend people on purpose. But there are inconsiderate people everywhere. This law is protecting mothers feeding their babies...and yes even the discrete ones who use the back of the restaurant, who previously could have been hassled should something have slipped out.
I am neutral on this issue of breastfeeding in public, but I am so annoyed by people who think that breastfeeding is the #1 option and anyone who doesn't breastfeed is doing something horrible. There is NO evidence from high quality studies concerning the benefits of breastfeeding (there is some evidence from poorly designed studies that have too many flaws to infer causality). Every woman must do what is right for her!!
I'd love to use a bottle in public. Any chance you could convince my kid to TAKE the bottle?
As to why I can't go someplace private, well, I'd love to. Do me a favor and watch my other two kids for me, 'kay?
To the previous poster "BM" I know that it was probably a rhetorical question, but to answer it, yes it actually IS that hard to "just use a bottle when you are in public." In order to use a bottle in public, you have to spend the time beforehand expressing milk; you then have to store the milk in the fridge and carry it with you when you go out in a cooler. When you're actually feeding the milk to the baby you're affecting your milk supply, which is regulated by how much the baby suckles at the breast (supply and demand). So now you have to try and spend extra time at home nursing the baby so that your milk supply doesn't drop off from not having the baby suckle while you were feeding the bottle. So now you've started a vicious cycle of trying to increase the amount of nursing that happens at home in order to feed a bottle while you're out. Is this possible to do? sure, many mothers do it every day when they go to work and pump and then come home and nurse their baby. But I would bet that if you asked any one of those mothers if they enjoy their time pumping you would get a range of answers that have something to do with what's right for their baby or doing the right thing, or providing what their baby needs, all wonderful things, but I've never met a mother who enjoyed the act of pumping. If you're not able to keep up with the pumping (it does take a lot of time) then your milk supply will continue to decrease over time, which can cause you to stop nursing before the baby has a mature gut to tolerate solid foods. This can cause many long term health problems for the baby, which will continue to increase the cost of health care for you and me.
So maybe long winded, but yes the answer is it is that hard to use a bottle. it's not the natural way to feed a baby, there is such a thing as nipple confusion (which can also affect your milk supply), and there's absolutely nothing wrong with a woman breastfeeding her baby, anywhere! It's the ultimate form of nurturing. Yay Massachusetts!
What happened to modesty. Yes-breast feeding is natural but why not be discreet. For the most part breast feeding mother accomplish this task in a very considerate way--but then there are others (trying to prove a point? or they simply do not care about decency.
The other day during an appointment I had a client simply whip out her breast and start feeding her almost 3 year old son (just after he finished putting some Cherrios in his mouth). I had to excuse myself from the room (for several minutes)--in the meantime getting behind with my other appointments. This women then had the nerve to complain that her appointment had taken so long and was outraged that I needed to continue seeing other patients. I mean a year old--you should be able to say 'honey, not now, mommy is busy'.
Wow, taxed2death. You had to explain to your child that breasts are for feeding babies. How horrible for you!!!
Chris: Your client was breastfeeding a THREE year old?? Oh come on. That's outrageous. And before everyone jumps on me for being intolerant, ignorant, not understanding the benefits of breast milk, blah, blah, blah ....let me just say that when a kid can ASK for it (and he has TEETH) he is too old to breastfeed!
Wow, seems to me a few really ignorant people live in MA. Here in WI, it now is a CRIME to interfere with a breastfeeding momma. And I say good on that law. I've been harassed by mall security guards to "go do *that* someplace else, only to inform them of WI State Statutes that protect me and my child.
Bottles aren't always easy - my kid NEVER took one. And trust me, I tried!! Obviously, I'm not going to go out for a $50 porterhouse and a martini with a nursing baby - the kiddo would be at home, asleep, with Grandma while DH and I are enjoying ADULT time. Now if you're talking about your steak at Applebee's, get over yourself.
And thanks to BC1997 who realizes the benefits of breastfeeding...rock on man! Your wife and kiddos are luck you realize how much better it is than that formula crap!
BM and Shackey - you're just a small group of misinformed, misogynistic men. Take your ignorance elsewhere, and look elsewhere while you're at it.
Hey Chris - Exposing a breast while breastfeeding has nothing to do with decency or proving a point. It is about feeding a child. Get over your insecurities.
Many of the moms here are true hypocrites. I'm pleased to see the government clarify ridiculous laws about indecent exposure, sex offenses, and other absurd criminal associations with breast feeding. However, many of these mothers who praise "nature", "protecting the child", "what do you think breasts are for", etc are the SAME mothers who have circumcised their male children like it was some kind of automatic reflex. Let me ask them: If nature got your breasts right, why did you think nature went wrong when your baby boy was born? This barbaric mutilation - often requested by mothers themselves in the name of so-called sanitation, aesthetics, conformity, tradition, etc - needs to stop. Do these women not see the hypocrisy?
Seriously folks, my wife has breast-fed both our children, our youngest is just wrapping up. My wife, always discreet, even so,we have had awkward stares, but I stare right back and of course, smile. For those of you who take issue with breastfeeding a baby, think about what you are protesting for one second....feeding a baby. A baby. An innocent. You want to send them to a bathroom ??? You'd want your child let's say, eating in a bathroom. Would you eat in a bathroom ? Would you want what is best for your baby, of course you would. It's like TV, if you dont like what's on, turn the channel, you're empowered.
To #85 BM: Clearly, you have no idea what actually goes into getting the mother's milk into a bottle. For me personally it was a very physically painful thing to do. It requires pumping. I'll leave you to your own imagination, but please refrain from such absurd comments such as "just a bottle." And for the record, many babies who are nursed flat out refuse a bottle, and for good reason. Would you rather snuggle with your mom, or intake latex or silicone in your mouth?
@mn - sure, your kids are the smartest in their grades....I bet they are superstar athletes too...get over yourself....there have been countless studies done which prove otherwise...not only the "brain" factor, but they are all around healthier..I have 3 kids, the youngest 2 BF - neither has ever been sick, aside from common cold...my oldest had her adnoids & tonsils out as a young child due to constant strep - she wasn;t BF....
@BM - its b/c of ppl like you that when I first started to BF I would sit on a public toilet to nurse or manually pump. Then I smartened up after the first 2 mos and threw up the "bird"....BF kids are BF, not bottle fed...you don't like it don't look...I should go out and pump, make a baby wait to eat, b/c you are uncomfortable?!?! And as for separate rooms...that's a joke - most bathrooms don't even have folding chairs, never mind someplace comfortable.. would you eat on the toilet?! Or changing stations..."HANGING OUT".....I have a feeling you are exaggerating, but even if you are not....
GET A GRIP......I WISH I HAD A BABY RIGHT NOW SO I COULD PROUDLY GO BF IN PUBLIC AGAIN
yuck
A professor of nutrition from an Ivy League school who did a lot of research in Denmark once told me that about the only place she hasn't seen a women breast feeding is on a bicycle.
If you can eat a hamburger at a park, a baby should be allowed to breastfeed right next to you.
no saggies please.
About time! This is about feeding babies. Breasts are NOT a sex organ. They are a food source for children. And the best possible food. "Excuse me, you can't eat here, you'll need to step into the bathroom."
Congratulations to the Commonwealth. The idea that anyone would even suggest a woman feed her child in the bathroom is appalling. How would you like to eat your meals in a bathroom? Bathrooms are for defecating, not for feeding.
My wife chose to bottle feed our son but most of his friends were breastfed and I see no problem with breatfeeding in public. THE KID HAS TO EAT!! The vast majority of nursing mothers are quite discreet and all you see is the back of the baby's head. I don't stare and if I glance over I just smile at the beauty of a happy baby.
When my son was young my pet peeve was to go into a airport, museum, store and see signs that said "Mens" and "Ladies and baby changing". Until recently mens rooms had no counters or tables to change a baby. I would not put him on the dirty floor!! The trend for tables in some mens rooms is a great idea but 20+ years too late for me. It shoulld be ALL mens rooms
THANK GOD every time im in public i'm so afraid a cop is just going to yell at me to put my boob away, seriously as a mother of 7 this is a huge relief. Bravo to the mass legislature.
As a mother of four, who breast-fed each one, the longest for a year and a half.... I am absolutely and totally AGAINST public indecency when it comes to this issue. I'm sorry, in your own space (your house, your friend's house, even a car) you have every right to nourish your child the way you see fit. But, when some stranger hauls out a breast and in a "could care less manner" proceeds to nurse her baby, I am both annoyed and repulsed. If I got a warning, then I COULD choose to turn away.... but too often, there's no such opportunity. I'm all for nursing babies! As I mentioned, I did it for many, many years. I thoroughly recommend it and would encourage all mothers to do the same. But please... PLEASE... be mindful of others. Not everyone is sympathetic. Not everyone sees it as natural. And there ARE people who are titillated by it, regardless of your opinion of them. Keep this most basic experience between yourself and your baby! If it's done well, people are oblivious to it anyway.
Columbine and others: So breast feading is "essential to healthy child development"? So those that do not or can not breast feed their child are denying their child an "essential" element of a healthy child ? As the father of an adopted child I find that statement rude, insulting as well as uneducated. I would imagine that you would defend the rights of same sex couples and single parents to adopt and find people who say that the healthiest way for a child to develop is to have a mom and a dad as being equally rude and insulting and uneducated. Thank you for causing and spreading doubt and concern in all familes who for whatever reason do not or can not breast feed the children they love so much and would deny nothing too.
Awesome!
homo's could marry first, but women take a back seat!
have to love MA for their bass-ackward ways of treating people!
Yuck is right. As a childfree older woman I agree with BM and Shecky. Since urination and defecation are also "natural acts", modesty and common sense keeps us from doing this in public (unless you are homeless). "Dark ages"- this practice is so third world. I'm sick and tired of everything revolving around breeders and their spawn. And yes, breasts are sex organs, just ask my FB but I'd never dream of flaunting them in public for any reason. First manners go out the window, then modesty. Be glad you don't live in countries ruled by the Taliban, then you have to cover everything up, not just your breasts.
If a man were to stare at a woman breastfeeding in public, would he be committing a crime? It seems a slippery slope from "I should be able to do this in public" to "why is he watching me, even though I'm in public?"
Why do people get so offended these days?
If we can all get over our parenting and sexual insecurities here, perhaps we can get to the more important question. If this is a free society and there is no law prohibiting public breast feeding of babies, why do we need a law? I know public indecency laws were being used etc., but it seems to me the more we say we need a law to be able to do something not otherwise proscribed, the more we capitulate in the death of our rights as free women and men.
Now, let's all get back to doing the very best we can for our children, agreeing what that will be will vary from family to family.
By the way, RUSS, Lesbian married women can breast feed in public too!
Wil, I don't think anyone is saying that if you CAN'T breast-feed you are a sub-par parent. Everyone does their best and no one should be made to feel guilty for not being able to breast-feed.
Sue, Breast-feeding is natural even if you don't want to acknowledge it and if someone is titillated, that's their problem. There are definite repercussions to keeping a baby isolated and out of society.
Factually, breast-feeding is more advantageous than formula not only in the nourishment department, but also the nurturing. A baby comes from the mother's body and should be close to it while out in society observing the world until he/she naturally moves on to the next stage which may not fit into any specific seeming age. So yes, if the baby is three and breast-feeds and is not forced to do so that's what is right for that baby.
Ladybug, my baby is 8 months and has teeth. Neither teeth, nor transitioning to solids (Chris), is a perquisite for stopping breast-feeding. Most babies get breast-fed right after eating solids as that is still where the most essential and necessary nourishment is given and quenches the babes thirst.
Yes, babies get thirsty too just like you and I.
For god's sake people, breast are made for feeding babies! My daugter refuses to take a bottle a lot of the time, and honestly, would you rather hear a hungry baby screaming bloody murder or possibly glimpse a part of a breast or a nipple? I always bring a small blanet and drape it over my shouder and my daughters while I nurse her, but she hates having her head covered while she nurses, and so sometimes she yanks the banket down mid-nursing. Oh well. I for one, might just go to the mall tomorrow JUST to feed my daughter...
I believe that breast feeding is natural and it should not be banned but, it also should not be that woman are inconsiderate to others and they should be discreat about it. Young teens get embarrassed. Had an experience when I was younger and on an MBTA bus a lady pulled out her breast and started feeding her child she did not cover up and that totally turned me against breast feeding because I did not want to do that to someone else. So yes to breast feeding but, add some common decency and discretion.
This is another example of how we are evolving to a society in which we require laws when simple common sense and regard for others should suffice. I have no doubt that there are abundant examples of BOTH: (1) women who were discrete about breast-feeding and unduly harassed by overly-sensitive prudes AND (2) militant breast feeders who almost dare you to be offended. Both sides need to get a life and back off. We need fewer laws and more civility.
Show a little respect for those of us who don't want to be subjected to this wonderful bonding experience. I think that breast feeding should be done in private. Nothing is the world is more awkward than running into a woman breast feeding a child.
I most certainly do not want to have to explain to my young children why this person is exposing her private parts in public. My parents raised all of us on bottles and we turned out just fine. If you made the choice to go "natural" that so be it, but do not cram your choice down our throats.
It's important to remember that breastfeeding is the biological norm. That means that all other feeding needs to be compared to it. When you do that, you discover that bottle feeding lowers almost every aspect of a child's health. Sometimes it's necessary, but that doesn't negate the fact that formula and bottles are not the first choice. One aspect of breastfeeding is the milk, of course, but the _act_ of suckling at the breast is almost as important. That is how babies develop the proper muscles for speech, make contact necessary for brain development, and learn to control their own eating, making them able to maintain a healthy weight as adults. So, no, bottle feeding when in public is simply not as healthy for a child. A breastfeeding child needs to _breastfeed_ when ever it is hungry.
Thank goodness! How ridiculous to have to register as a sex offender for feeding your baby! To those who get offended, deal with it. I may not like to see men with fat, hair guts hanging out the bottom of their shirts, but there's no law against being fat it public. If you really can't handle it, become a hermit. Being out in public is obviously too much for you.
Im so sick of the "its natural" argument, yes it is but some discretion would be nice, its almost like some women are arrogant about it, like to rub it in your face, there are alot of "natural acts" that you do in private, like going to the bathroom, or having sex, there is no reason that a women has to pull her tits out in public
As a father of 3 who were all breast fed, I support BF in public when done discreetly. Feeding should be a relaxing time for the infant and doing it in public places with all the surrounding commotion is not the best for the infants. The bigger issue is how somne mothers "flaunt" the feeding. At the mall the other day this woman was BF on a bench at the bottom of the escalators making no effort to cover herself at all. I happenned to be coming down the escalator when she changed breasts and just left the first one hanging out for what seemed like an eternity. Since that breast was no longer being used for feeding it should be covered. Whats next, allowing her to walk around the mall topless because she was feeding 10 minutes ago. We all need to be reasonable, see BF and see it for what it is, a natural act that not everyone needs to share in.
OK, this is getting crazy! Bottom line, women have breasts to feed their babies! Can anyone argue with this? That is the only reason we have them. This argument is not about women choosing to breastfeed or not, that is a families choice and not for anyone else to judge. However, the arguments about going to the bathroom in public in comparison are pathetic. Obviously, there are reasons beyond exposing oneself to why we use bathrooms, sanitation being one. I don't see women squirting their breast milk on the side of the street. They are simply feeding their babies, the same babies that go to the bathroom in a diaper because they are babies! Breastfeeding is not a sexual act, and if you see it as one you really need to look hard at why!
Oh and by the way “getreal”, your argument is pathetic. How do you know we circumcised our sons? I didn't, does that give me more of a right to claim breastfeeding is natural?
ladies, from a fellow lady, lets just not let boobs hang out left and right. have a little decency. not everyone wants to see it.
Hey Wil,
It is great that you adopted, it is unfortunate you could not breast feed. This does not mean it is rude to state the current scientific and quite logical (because it is how we were designed) understanding that breast feeding is good for your health.
Your statement is like saying that if you cannot afford food that it is rude to say that humans need food.
BTW folks, those afraid of nankedness are really the one's with problems. Those afraid of breasts can now stay home, move out of state, or find the highly restrictive governement they want elsewhere. MA has so many laws just to keep you from being free, financially secure or healthy, that this laws seems out of character. The MA mentality is that there "is only one good option". As long as it stays this way, we will have stupid debates about mother's being restricted from feeding their children the way it has been done for tens of thousands of years.!!!
It's ok, don't breast feed your baby so that they can get sick frequently their whole life and suffer from allergies every day.
This is not 1965 where doctors thought keeping breasts out of public was more important than health. This is 2009 where we will at least pretend to care. Now if MA would stop restricting jobs, discouraging employers, and sending jobs out of state so these now more healthy babies have somewhere to work. when they grow up.
I also find it very interesting all the comments by parents that do not want to explain why that woman is hanging her "private parts" out to their young children.
I ask, is there anything in this world that has two options that you have to explain to your child? Just express our societies now legal norm. "Breast are private parts, except when mother's are feeding their babies, because honey, that is why women have breasts."
Your child may notice that you stop at some traffic lights and don't stop at others. You may eventually explain that if the light is red you stop and if the light is green you go. If the breasts are just out it is nudity (which should not be illegal anyway) if they are feeding an infant human, it is nourishment.
All things that offend are not illegal, I am offended by close mindedness, the government telling me how to build my home, perfume (big time) and fancy hair dooos. Come on people, it is not that hard to raise your child so that they are not close minded and understand that there is ALWAYS more than one option.
I try to be modest while breastfeeding, but my baby HATES having a blanket over him and tries to push it off. The only reason I feel compelled to be modest is because our screwed-up society oversexualizes the female breast. In the majority of cultures in the world they understand that the breast is for breastfeeding, not for the pleasure of the male viewer. Therefore, people don't think so much of it if they happen to see it during it's natural function. I can't wait to visit my in-laws in Costa Rica, where you see women breastfeeding on buses, on the street--everywhere--and no one makes a big deal out of it. Even in that macho culture where men are much more open about pursuing women, they don't leer when a mother is feeding her child. And to all you people, both men and women, who say you don't want to see a woman's breast because it's not particularly appealing to you: when are you going to suggest that men always keep their shirts on in public? Because there are all kinds of body types that get bared in warm weather, and not all of them are particularly appealing to me, either. But I figure it's their right to take off their shirt if it makes them more comfortable in the heat, and I should be a hermit if I can't handle running into different kinds of people in public.
you know what i cant understand? how men's nipples are a-ok to see but because a nipple is attached to a female we have to hide them. breastfeeding is a-ok with me- and as far as nipples go- who cares? its a nipple for god sakes everyone has them. you know what id like to see more readily banned. buttcracks. male or female- i dont need to see where your poop comes out.
To all who said that breasts are not a sex organ. You are absolutely correct, but in America breasts are treated as a sex object. That is the reason men go topless and women cannot.