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Do you think it's OK to ask women about breast-feeding?

If you've had a baby, you're probably familiar with the questions: "Are you breast-feeding?" "How long did you nurse your baby?" or "You're not breast-feeding?" In any case, do you think it's OK for anyone and everyone to ask?

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Results with 10 short comments
Total of 982 votes - click on the "Display Comments" bar below to sort comments

38.4%
Yes. It's a very natural question and the more we can openly discuss breast-feeding the better for everyone.
377 votes
12.2%
No. I think it's a very personal act and decision and the questions sometimes have hidden agendas.
120 votes
49.4%
It depends on who's asking. I'm fine with friends and family, but I don't think it's appropriate for strangers to ask.
485 votes
Display Comments:
Yes. It's a very natural question and the more we can openly discuss breast-feeding the better for everyone.

The fact that it is an issue is sad enough. Women have breasts, which are meant to lactate. The evidence is overwhelming, stop whining.

     - 3:27 pm EST on Tue Jan 12, 2010
    It depends on who's asking. I'm fine with friends and family, but I don't think it's appropriate for strangers to ask.

    Most people who ask are just curious. However, I have encountered people who are asking so they can judge (you can tell by their tone).

       - 3:27 pm EST on Tue Jan 12, 2010
      Yes. It's a very natural question and the more we can openly discuss breast-feeding the better for everyone.

      It is a natural and wonderful procedure - I would hope more people would ask about it - I loved sharing my experiences!

         - 4:36 pm EST on Tue Jan 12, 2010
        It depends on who's asking. I'm fine with friends and family, but I don't think it's appropriate for strangers to ask.

        It depends.

           - mark
           - 6:30 pm EST on Tue Jan 12, 2010
          It depends on who's asking. I'm fine with friends and family, but I don't think it's appropriate for strangers to ask.

          It is a personal matter and no ones business but sometimes you can get good advice from family or friends with experience.

             - jamib
             - 7:03 pm EST on Tue Jan 12, 2010
            It depends on who's asking. I'm fine with friends and family, but I don't think it's appropriate for strangers to ask.

            Many BF Moms cover up when feeding, so why would a stranger feel they free to ask such a question given the drama about exposing breasts?

               - 10:37 am EST on Wed Jan 13, 2010
              It depends on who's asking. I'm fine with friends and family, but I don't think it's appropriate for strangers to ask.

              People can ask too much sometimes!

                 - 10:50 am EST on Thu Jan 14, 2010
                Yes. It's a very natural question and the more we can openly discuss breast-feeding the better for everyone.

                I think it is a natural question to ask but mom's shouldn't be afraid to be honest and say they do not.

                   - 4:02 pm EST on Thu Jan 14, 2010
                  Yes. It's a very natural question and the more we can openly discuss breast-feeding the better for everyone.

                  I think most people that ask are genuinely interested and think it is a positive thing. Or they want to share their experience with it.

                     - 12:00 pm EST on Fri Jan 15, 2010
                    Yes. It's a very natural question and the more we can openly discuss breast-feeding the better for everyone.

                    Before kids, I asked to decide for myself. After kids, I ask to give them advice and see if I can help them decide.

                       - 9:15 pm EST on Wed Jan 27, 2010

                      Discussion with 7 comments - Click here to jump to the comment form.

                      Having nursed both of my children, I can tell you about the challenges and rewards of being a breast-feeding mom with a full time job. And if you ask, I am happy to share - not to recount the stories for fun, but because I believe that we as a society are finally moving in the right direction as we re-gain this lost art.

                      My in-laws were horrified at the idea and tried to convince me not to breast feed. Why? Sheer, utter ignorance. I am grateful that my mother-in-law mentioned her horror to a friend who not only attempted to set her straight, but sought me out and supported my decision. It was that support that enabled me to have the courage to carry out my choice when my son was born.

                      I agree that it is an individual decision, and I respect the right of others to keep it private. HOWEVER, we live in a society where magazine articles for increasing orgasm sit in front of you at the grocery store, yet information on a basic, fundamental act like breast feeding must be sought. If we are happy to share "easy make after work recipes" and other working parent tips, why not information about breast feeding?

                      Understand that those who ask are curious, and that we can help in their understanding and appreciation of the benefits of breastfeeding by sharing. Rather than assume/fear judgment, assume and approach questions as though based in curiosity and desire for education. It’s a better stance for both parties, and teaches the questioner that there is an appropriate line and purpose for questioning. If they respond with judgment, share that you appreciate their right to their opinion, but remind them that they have no business judging your breasts and their uses, you aren’t up for Miss November and they haven’t been selected as a judge.

                        Reply#1 - Tue Jan 12, 2010 5:32 PM EST

                        I truly think that the image included with the article is purposefully provocative, and is flaunting to those of us who prefer discretion.

                          Reply#2 - Tue Jan 12, 2010 5:45 PM EST

                          why is it vukgar to you its not your body in that picture

                            #2.1 - Tue Jan 12, 2010 6:03 PM EST
                            Reply

                            i feel that the message in todays society is that it should be hidden or that the can milk is just as healthy. when its clearly noty breast feeding shouldnt be hidden its nataural get over it!!!!!!!!!!! and for those who cant breastfeed im sure theres a good reason why you shouldnt your body knows best the can stuff is healthy enough.

                              Reply#3 - Tue Jan 12, 2010 5:54 PM EST

                              I am currently breastfeeding my first child, and have been exclusively for her entire 5 months. Although I am modest about other body parts, I feed her anywhere and everywhere with no shame! I fed her in the middle of a Starbucks today! It is 100 % natural and beautiful, and should never be hidden! I am proud to talk about it with anyone who asks.

                                Reply#4 - Tue Jan 12, 2010 8:28 PM EST

                                How did you breastfeed in Starbucks, what sort of cover did you use? I have been looking for a good one. Did anyone give you strange or dirty looks??

                                  #4.1 - Wed Jan 13, 2010 11:22 AM EST
                                  Reply

                                  I think the first step would be for our society to get over our puritanical attitude towards our bodies. Our bodies are not sinful. I would be suprised to hear any bf mother declare that she bf in public to make people uncomfortable. I think many times, bf in public is not done in such a way to "expose" the breast. You might see part of it, but the baby's head is right there!

                                  I bf my twins for 11.5 months and would use a blanket when bf in public because you get cold and at home I'd be topless most of the time.

                                  I think part of why we have this problem with mothers who publicly bf is because we have so many issues with our own bodies. :(

                                    Reply#5 - Wed Jan 13, 2010 10:45 AM EST
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