Breastfeeding is an incredible way to nourish your baby, but the idea of pumping at work or nursing in public can be intimidating for some new moms. Knowing your rights can help you feel confident and comfortable nursing your baby or pumping wherever you are.
Your Right to Breastfeed in Public
Breastfeeding in public is legal in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Virgin Islands. Federal law, including the Affordable Care Act (ACA), mandates that most employers provide reasonable break times and a private, non-bathroom space for working moms to express milk. Additionally, state laws ensure that moms can breastfeed in any public or private location where they are legally allowed to be.
Expanded Legal Protections and Rights
Federal Protections
The ACA includes specific provisions for breastfeeding moms:
- Break Time for Nursing Mothers: Requires employers to provide reasonable break time for an employee to express breast milk for her nursing child for one year after the child’s birth each time such employee has the need to express the milk.
- Private Space: Employers must provide a place, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from coworkers and the public, which may be used by an employee to express breast milk.
According to the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee, the 2022 Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act (the PUMP Act) extends these protections and “almost entirely closes the coverage gap that left 1 in 4 women of childbearing age without federal protection of their right to break time and a private space to pump during the workday. It expands the legal right to receive pumping breaks and private space to nearly 9 million more workers, including teachers, registered nurses, farmworkers, and many others.”
State Laws
In addition to federal protections, many states have laws that provide further support for breastfeeding moms:
- Public Breastfeeding: All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Virgin Islands have laws that specifically allow women to breastfeed in any public or private location.
- Workplace Rights: Some states have additional requirements for workplace accommodations beyond federal law, such as California, New York, and New Jersey.
Tips for Breastfeeding in Public
- Practice at Home: Whether you’re using a breast pump or nursing your little one, practicing can help build your confidence. We recommend breastfeeding in front of a mirror to become comfortable with your technique.
- Plan Ahead: Scout for potential nursing spots in advance, like at malls or airports with designated nursing rooms.
- Dress for Success: Wear nursing-friendly clothing, nursing bras, and pumping bras that offer easy access and coverage.
- Stay Positive: Try to focus on the beautiful bond you’re building with your baby.
- Build a Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and online communities.
Kindred Bravely Bras to Support Public Breastfeeding
As a team of moms, we understand the importance of feeling comfortable while breastfeeding, especially in public. Here are some of the best nursing bras and pumping bras for breastfeeding outside the home:
- Sublime® Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra: An award-winner perfect for multitasking moms, offering hands-free pumping and easy nursing access
- Simply Sublime® Nursing Bra: A full-coverage fan-favorite, beloved for its comfort and functionality, with stretchy fabric and a supportive design
- Signature Sublime® Contour Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra: The pumping T-shirt bra of your dreams with effortless contouring and easy pumping functionality
- Sublime® Nursing Sports Bra: Perfect for active moms, offering great support, excellent moisture-wicking, and quick nursing access
- Sublime® Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Sports Bra: A pullover style that combines the all-in-one functionality of our best-seller, the Hands-Free Pumping Bra, and the performance fabric of our Nursing Sports Bra
Empower Yourself
Breastfeeding in public doesn't have to be stressful. By knowing your rights, preparing ahead of time, and using great pumping & nursing clothes, you can nurse your baby or pump confidently and comfortably wherever you go. Remember, you’re providing the best nourishment and comfort for your baby, and that's something to be incredibly proud of.
Checkout