Breastfeeding is a normal part of life, and one young mother is determined to stand up for her right to nurse in public without hiding. At just 18 years old, she’s speaking out about the challenges she faces while feeding her 2-year-old, sharing an honest and encouraging view.
Strangers often stare at her unexpectedly.
Shania O’Neill breastfeeds her daughter wherever she is. She shared, “It could be anywhere—on the tram, bus, in a restaurant, or even while pushing the stroller in a store. I’ll feed her whenever and wherever we are.”
Online opinions are divided, with some people not liking her decision to breastfeed publicly. One person commented, “It’s offensive in public.” Another added, “A little cover would do, or is she just wanting attention from men?”
Despite her confidence, Shania often deals with unwanted attention and comments from strangers, which she finds frustrating. She explained, “Boobs are for feeding babies. It’s natural.” The Gen Z mom added, “I don’t get why people think I’m looking for attention. I’m just doing something that used to be normal 60 years ago.”
Shania never imagined she would become a social media advocate for public breastfeeding. She admitted she didn’t plan to breastfeed at first. But once she started, she said, “It changed me. It’s created such an amazing bond.”
In the beginning, Shania used to cover up while breastfeeding but stopped because it felt uncomfortable. “It was hard with a blanket. I had to keep checking every two seconds,” she explained. Now, she no longer uses one, and it’s much easier for her.
Despite the criticism, Shania continues to breastfeed openly. She said, “You wouldn’t tell a woman feeding with a bottle to cover it up.” She encourages other mothers to embrace their right to feed openly and ignore the opinions of others. “I recommend that moms go into it without a care. Your baby comes first.”