Under Canada’s Criminal Code, nudity is forbidden in public places or on private property that is exposed to public view “without a lawful excuse”. Breastfeeding falls under this lawful excuse. Why, then, is it still stigmatized in public?
We still don’t fully accept breastfeeding as a society, despite being normal, natural and life-giving. Controversial stories have surfaced recently, including the removal of pictures on Facebook. These measures prove that we still see breastfeeding it as an indecent act.
In 2012, 89 per cent of women were breastfeeding after birth. According to Statistics Canada, three months after birth, half of new mothers stopped breastfeeding. Another three months later, only one in four mothers still breastfed.
“Usually people are indifferent. Some are awkward or embarrassed and avoid eye contact,” said Danielle Beatty while breastfeeding her six-month old son, Sebastian, aboard a train.
The issues women face with breastfeeding can start prenatally. Not getting the proper information or help can discourage women.
According to Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative launched by Unicef and the World Health Organization in 1991, only 80 per cent of women said they had help from a health-care practitioner to start feeding for the first time. Without the help that women are looking for in the health care system, they have created peer groups to help themselves.
“At first I wasn’t comfortable, it was daunting to feed in public. Groups such as Ottawa Mom Group on Facebook and Fitmom Ottawa helped me get more comfortable,” said Beatty.
Fitmom is a fitness group for mothers and babies of all ages to work out together. Mothers exercise in tandem with babies aided by harnesses. Breastfeeding and changing is encouraged during these classes.
“Women can talk about issues they have and help each other through them. It is a safe place for women to get comfortable with feeding their child in a public situation,” said Susan McDonald, the owner of the fitness program.
“It is reassuring to talk with others moms in the same situation,” said Kathleen Denny, a mom attending the class with her nine-month old son.
Most women in this group breastfeed and realize the health benefits to giving the breast. According to Statistics Canada, breast milk is the optimal choice for babies. It is easier to digest and helps protect against multiple diseases.