Nursing mothers attempt to shift public perception

REGINA – About 15 nursing mothers gathered in Cornwall Centre Saturday morning as part of an international world record challenge.

The mothers, mostly from Canada and Ireland, all started breastfeeding at the same time – but to many, the event was about more than numbers, it was about respect.

Catherine Gibbs has been breastfeeding her baby, Lily, for eight months.

“I think it’s important for people to normalize breastfeeding. It’s a normal thing to do,” said Gibbs. “Women should feel comfortable feeding their children anywhere.”

Gibbs explained there’s a number of reasons why she chooses to feed her daughter herself.

“It’s cost effective, it’s what she prefers, there’s bonding there. You’re connected to it,” she said.

Another new mom, Crystal Palmer, said breastfeeding is convenient.

“It’s so easy. Everywhere you go, no matter what you do, you have your baby food with you. It’s the right temperature and it’s always there. You don’t need to bring anything extra,” she explained.

Nursing her six-month old son Lachlan also meant she gets more sleep at night.

“You don’t have to wake up in the middle of the night and go and get a bottle. For us, we co-sleep, I just roll over and I feed him and we both go back to sleep again,” Palmer said.

According to organizer Raylene Witt, there’s also health benefits associated with breastfeeding, for both mom and baby.

“It decreases their chance of breast cancer and ovarian cancer. If they want to lose baby weight, that’s how they’re going to lose it fastest. For babies, it’s the most natural thing for them. And it also gives them that immune system,” she said.

Laws in Saskatchewan have been developed to help support nursing mothers and prevent discrimination.

“Women have a right to breast feed anywhere. Anywhere, ever. Wherever they want to take and feed,” said Witt.

Mothers at Cornwall Centre agree most people are supportive.

“I do get smiles and looks of happiness from older ladies,” said Gibbs.

But that doesn’t mean Saskatchewan moms are immune to judgement.

“She’s big now, she wrestles with the cover. She doesn’t like being covered, it’s hot and uncomfortable. I’ve gotten looks but I don’t really care,” Gibbs explained.

It’s those negative attitudes mothers like Palmer are hoping to change.

“I’m going to feed my baby. If you don’t want a baby to be fed that’s your problem. And if you think breasts are sexual, that’s that person’s problem too. It’s not my problem. Our breasts were intended to feed our babies.”

As of 2:30 p.m. Saturday, almost 950 mothers were confirmed as having taken part in the world record breastfeeding attempt.