Persuasive Essay On Breastfeeding In Public

Breast feeding in public places has become a very controversial topic. Some individuals feel that mothers should not be able to breast feed their children in public because it is not decent. Others believe that mothers have a legal right to be able to breastfeed their children in public. This paper will argue that mothers should be able to breastfeed their children in public without the fear of being judged by others harshly.

The act of breastfeeding has been proven to be very beneficial for the mother and child. Breastfeeding benefits can include, ideal nutrition, lower risk of asthma and allergies, fewer hospitalizations, and fighting off bacteria. According to the National Institute of Health, “Among the known health benefits are nutritionally balanced meals, some protection against common childhood infections, and better survival during a baby’s first year, including a lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.” (What Are the Benefits of Breastfeeding) Another vital benefit of breastfeeding is skin to skin contact. Skin to skin has been proven to have great physical and emotional benefits.

It has become a societal normal to bottle feed babies with formula and milk substitute. Many families cannot afford bottles and formula for their babies because of low income. According to The Surgeon General, “Families who followed optimal breastfeeding practices could save more than $1,200–$1,500 in expenditures for infant formula in the first year alone.” (The Surgeon General’s Call to Action). When families eliminate the cost of expensive bottles and formula there is more money to go toward the household, schooling, and other