Traveling with a baby can be a daunting experience, especially for new mothers who are breastfeeding. The story of Marie Kislow, a new mom who faced challenges while breastfeeding her son, Leo, on a cross-country flight, highlights the importance of understanding your rights and being prepared for such situations. This blog post aims to provide valuable insights into breastfeeding on airplanes, including legal rights, expert tips, and personal experiences to help you navigate this aspect of travel with confidence.
Understanding Your Rights
Breastfeeding in public, including on airplanes, is a right protected by law in all 50 states. Thirty-one states specifically exempt breastfeeding from public indecency laws. Most airlines have policies that not only allow but also welcome breastfeeding on their flights. Family nurse practitioner Emily Silver, co-founder of Nurture by NAPS, emphasizes, “It is your right to feed your child. If someone doesn’t like it, they can look away or go away.”
The Importance of Breastfeeding During Flights
Health experts, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommend breastfeeding during takeoff and landing. This practice helps protect your child from ear pain caused by cabin pressure changes. Silver advises, “The pressure changes within the cabin during take-off and landing can cause that popping or full sensation in your ears and can be uncomfortable for babies or young children. I always recommend sucking for take-off or landing because of this.”
Tips for Breastfeeding on a Plane
Timing and Comfort: Try to time breastfeeding with takeoff and landing. Wear a nursing tank with a soft, flexible top for easy access. While nursing covers are an option, some women find them restrictive or hot.
Traveling with Breast Milk: You can fly with any amount of breast milk. Print out the TSA guidelines on breast milk to have on hand in case of any confusion at security checkpoints.
Airport Facilities: Research whether your airport has breastfeeding pods and their locations for a private, clean space to feed.
Breast Pump Considerations: If traveling without your baby, carry your breast pump on board to avoid delays in emptying your breasts.
Personal Experiences and Advocacy
Marie Kislow’s experience underscores the need for greater awareness and acceptance of breastfeeding in public spaces, including airplanes. Despite the initial discomfort and embarrassment, Kislow stood up for her rights and received an apology and compensation from the airline. She hopes that sharing her story will contribute to normalizing and destigmatizing breastfeeding in public.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding on an airplane can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. By understanding your rights, preparing adequately, and advocating for yourself, you can ensure a smoother journey for both you and your child. As societal norms continue to evolve, open conversations and shared experiences like Kislow’s are crucial in fostering a more supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers.
