| Parveen Kaur | Singapore | 4 Nov 2015 | Asia Samachar |
I have a suggestion. I apologise in advance if the topic offends anyone. I strongly feel that our Gurdwaras should have dedicated nursing rooms for breastfeeding mothers.
As a first time mom, nearly three years ago, I remember how difficult it was to plan a visit to the Gurdwara because I had to constantly worry about feed timings. And now it’s the same with my second son.
I believe that the Gurdwara Sahib should be a place where we can bring our families, no matter the age, with comfort and ease – without having to worry about where to feed the baby.
Yes, I can use a nursing cover and feed in the Darbar Sahib – but honestly, I’m worried about the reactions I’ll get. Plus it’s a mighty task to handle dupatta, infant and nursing cover at the same time! And not to mention, trying to look as composed as possible the whole while.
I understand that some Gurdwara Sahibs may have rooms that are otherwise used for other activities but if requested, can be used for breastfeeding. That’s great. But its not the best. Firstly, no mom likes to leave home uncertain about where she will feed her baby when it’s time. And secondly, she may not be able to find the right person to open the room door when the need arises. Also, the Gurdwara members themselves may have differing views as to whether a room can be used for such cases or not.
I’m in no way suggesting that it be a luxurious room (although it would be wonderful to have a baby care room with hot/cold water dispensers, a diaper changing station and a power outlet). But, for starters, just a small corner allocated to moms with curtains is enough.
I’m sure other moms out there have had difficulties breastfeeding their babies in Gurdwaras, too. Especially judging by the number of women that choose to breastfeed these days. So, I wanted to put forth this small request for all the moms out there who are like me.
Parveen Kaur is an an accountant by profession and a mother by heart. She lives in Singapore. The idea was initially shared in an online Singapore discussion group.
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There is an increasing number of professional women opting either not to marry or marry late and either not have children or delay having a baby. This is perceived to be due to arrival of a child is perceived to adversely effect the career prospects of the professional women or those more interested in social life and also the high cost of having/maintaining a baby is now said to be in the million ringgit category.
Further the Western Fashion experts seem to have convinced women worldwide that breast feeding is bad for the their figure of the women which again may hinder the career enhancement of professional women. The Western scientists perceived to be working for baby milk companies seem to have convinced even the highly literate women that formula milk is better than any mother’s milk.
For the above reason it is doubtful if there will be many women who would want to breast feed their babies. Also many women with babies are adopting the culture of having maids to look after babies and feeding them with formula milk.
SADLY MOST OF THE COUNTIES THINK THAT ‘WEST IS BEST’ and ‘WHITE IS RIGHT’.
However I do agree and support the request that some space should be provided in Gurdwaras and other public places for those women who want to breast feed their babies even if the number may be nominal.
My apologies if anyone feels offended but my views are based on what is observed. I am ever willing to discuss my views with anyone and at any time including in person.
Kuala Lumpur Malaysia 6019-2927178 >gursharan38@gmail.com<
Breastfeeding is an activity that burns a lot of energy. It gets really hot when feeding a baby, for both baby and mummy. If we do have a room to feed the baby, it would be good to have some ventilation. At least a fan, for a comfortable breastfeeding session.
If we do decide to have a breastfeeding room, it would be great to add some books for the younger children so they can keep themselves occupied.