Breastfeeding in Public

A woman breastfeeding while outdoors

Ottawa Public Health Supports Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding Challenge

Anytime, Anywhere

Breastfeeding mothers have the right to breastfeed anytime, anywhere. This right is protected by the Ontario Human Rights Commission. No one should prevent you from breastfeeding your child simply because you are in a public area. They should not ask you to “cover up,” disturb you, or ask you to move to another area that is more “discreet.”

If you feel your breastfeeding rights are not being respected, you can:

  • Inform the individual, business or community agency of your right to breastfeed your baby in public
  • Consult with The Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario or by phone at 1-866-598-0322.
  • Contact groups such as La Leche League Canada or INFACT Canada for support
  • Discuss with Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744

Ottawa Public Health Supports Breastfeeding

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) supports breastfeeding anytime, anywhere however, there is an additional option for mothers who wish to have more privacy All OPH sites, including dental offices and the Sexual Health Centre, have identified areas available upon request for OPH staff, volunteers, students and members of the public to breastfeed or express breast milk.

Breastfeeding symbol

These areas will be identifiable by the Baby-Friendly logo.
As part of their role in protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding, Ottawa Public Health has worked with other city departments to provide a breastfeeding room at City Hall and 255 Centrum Blvd. for staff and the public to use.

Breastfeeding Challenge

The Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge, began in 2001 as part of World Breastfeeding Week, an international celebration of breastfeeding. It’s a friendly competition that brings together mothers from around the world by challenging them to set the record for the most babies’ breastfeeding at one time.
Ottawa Public Health has participated in the event since 2002. Last year there were 3,934 children in 9 countries who took part in the Breastfeeding Challenge.