Breastfeeding comebacks for unwanted questions
Fed up of everyone having an opinion on your breastfeeding? This list reads what NOT to say to a breastfeeding mom. While the answer to any of these could be “It’s none of your business!”, we thought you’d like a few more breastfeeding comebacks to have up your sleeve. Here are five ways to shut down those annoying breastfeeding questions.
- Do you want to breastfeed somewhere more private?
There is no shame in breastfeeding in public! It is natural to feed your baby when they’re hungry. Everyone else’s feelings are unimportant. Reply with “Thank you. We are comfortable here.”
- Do you want a cover while you breastfeed?
It’s entirely up to you if you want to breastfeed in public and whether you use a breastfeeding cover. It’s not your responsibility if this makes others feel awkward. That’s their issue. Simply say, “We’re more comfortable like this, thank you.”
- Is your baby still hungry?
Babies eat frequently and you should follow their hunger and fullness cues. A simple breastfeeding comeback could be: “My baby will finish breastfeeding when they are full and will let me know when they’re hungry again.”
- If you offer your baby a bottle, you know they’ll never breastfeed again?
It is entirely possible for you to breastfeed AND bottle-feed your baby. This technique is called combination feeding, or mixed feeding, where you breastfeed and supplement with formula at different feedings. Breast milk is produced on a supply and demand basis, so it’s important that your breast milk supply is established first. For help on combination feeding, see our checklist here. Shut down the conversation by answering “We have been combination feeding, and it has been working really well for us.”
- Are you still breastfeeding?
Has someone suggested that your baby is too old to breastfeed? Health Canada and the World Health Organization recommend that you continue breastfeeding up to two years and beyond. And you can choose extended breastfeeding for as long as you and your baby wish to do so. Tell them “Yes, we are still breastfeeding. It’s working well for us?”
Related articles
Lonely mom? 10 things to do with baby—that give something back to you
Even with a wealth of online parenting forums and a baby in your arms, it’s easy to feel isolated and lonely as a mom.
4 mins to read
Baby vaccine schedule
Early childhood immunizations are an important safeguard against serious and sometimes life-threatening illnesses for your baby.
4 mins to read
How to be a confident parent: start today with six easy steps
Becoming a new parent and bringing your newborn home, can be a daunting experience to navigate.
3 mins to read
Understanding why babies cry
Wondering why babies cry? If you’re struggling to understand what your baby is trying to tell you, check this list for possible clues to help.
2 mins to read
First-time dad tips—how to be a hands-on dad
Wondering how dads can help with newborns?
6 mins to read
Fed up with mom guilt? Here’s how to banish unhelpful thoughts
Tired of battling mom guilt? It’s entirely normal, but pretty unhelpful if you’re navigating many other new mom emotions.
2 mins to read
Coping with baby blues
Many moms experience feeling of postpartum blues – sometimes called the “baby blues” soon after their little one arrives.
3 mins to read
Need some space? Here’s how to handle visitors after giving birth
If you’re an overwhelmed mom or dad with too many baby visitors, don’t panic. Here’s our top five tips on how to handle visitors after giving birth, giving you time to bond with your baby.
3 mins to read
Overcoming breastfeeding problems
Breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally but with a bit of practice, perseverance, and a few pointers, it can get easier. Try these steps to help tackle breastfeeding problems.
2 mins to read
New mom emotions to look out for and how to deal with them
Having a baby and becoming a first-time parent is a massive emotional rollercoaster. Here are 9 emotions after giving birth that you may be experiencing.
3 mins to read
How to give a baby massage
Baby massages are a great opportunity for interacting with your baby and for skin-to-skin contact. Find out what to do with this baby tummy massage breakdown.
2 mins to read
Baby Feeding and Nutrition: The Guide
How will you feed your newborn?
7 mins to read
What’s a healthy breastfeeding diet?
If you’re breastfeeding, a healthy diet is important as it can affect your baby as much as you. Get tips on what not to eat when breastfeeding and what to eat when breastfeeding.
2 mins to read
How to emotionally prepare for parenthood before becoming a mom
Amazing news! You’re expecting your first baby. But what can you do to emotionally prepare for parenthood?
3 mins to read
Your baby proofing action plan
Even though they won’t be mobile at first, it’s a good idea to baby proof your house before the big arrival.
2 mins to read
10 money-saving tips for having a baby on a budget
Working out how much to save for a baby can be a daunting task.
4 mins to read
How to Switch From Breastfeeding to Bottle-feeding
Whether you want to express breast milk or you’re thinking of supplementing with baby formula, try these 13 tips on how to switch from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding.
7 mins to read
The ins and outs of babies’ digestive system
By Dr. Jeff Habert, family physician
3 mins to read
Guide to breastfeeding and feeding positions
Yes, it seems like another pregnancy miracle, but it’s true—your body produces the perfect baby food: Breast milk.
11 mins to read
Related tools
Article finder
Expert articles and tips about development, parenting support, and nutrition
Product finder
Find Nestlé Nutrition Products right for you and your baby
Checklists finder tool
Checklists and tips to help along your parenting journey
