do nursing lounges exist at airports?

[Peanut1207]

I'm honestly asking this question...do nursing lounges exist at airports? If not, they totally should! I don't really mind nursing in public but my baby is 6 1/2 month and completely distracted by every sound, light flashing, loud noise, etc...it'd be great to have a calm, quiet place to nurse him while traveling. I absolutely refuse to feed him in a bathroom stall so I'm going to have to find a nice peaceful corner (hahahaha at O'Hare airport in Chicago)! If they can put nursing lounges with comfy couches at Von Maur and Nordstrom why can't they do it at an airport? I surely can't be the only nursing mama traveling!

[Cathy]

maybe talk to a gate agent about allowing you temporary access to a business class lounge? saying that it will help your baby be more content during flight -- that may be a selling point.

[sweetkisses]

They should but I don't know if most airports have one. I tried see if DFW had one online just now and I don't think they do.

I recently traveled to Florida and I saw a mama nursing her baby at the airport. She was sitting on the floor, with her boppy and nursing her baby while tons of travelers were walking all around her going to their destination. When when a child is easily distracted it is hard to do that though.

I think it would be a good idea to write to the airport about your suggestion. Voicing your concerns is the only way to get people/companies to become more breastfeeding friendly.

[kohlby]

You could go to a gate that doesn't have a plane going out for a while. Even when I'm not nursing in public, I find an empty or near empty gate to give my kids more wiggle room.

[trylyn5]

The Anchorage, AK airport does. It is in the women's restroom but a separate section with a somewhat comfy chair, a sink, and a baby changing area.

[kohlby]

The Anchorage, AK airport does. It is in the women's restroom but a separate section with a somewhat comfy chair, a sink, and a baby changing area.
Anchorage is so much a nursing friendly place! I was there a few years back for a marathon and then visited the kenai penninsula. I found myself feeling more at home with those people than anywhere I've ever been! :)

[Peanut1207]

Thanks for the tips ladies. I tried to add this earlier but must've screwed it up...if smokers can get a lounge in some airports, nursing mamas should be able to get a closet or something with a chair and quiet, kwim??? Maybe I'll write some letters.

[smoochy12]

that is a good idea to write a letter. i usually just go to an empty gate like kohlby...

[rydersmommy]

I was just at the houston airport and they had one. But just one as far as I could tell, and it wasnt close to either of my gates!
I think they need multiple ones in each airport! I had to nurse DS on the plane while people were walking by looking for their seats. At least DH held up a blanket to make a "wall" for me. =)

[momoffaith]

Great question ... I've never thought to look. I always nursed DD on the plane but during our time at the airport she was too busy. Good luck and check the airport where you will be traveling and hopefully you will be pleasantly surprised.