An Architectural Study on Breastfeeding in Public

Ayako Naka (Toyo University)

Breastfeeding in public is controversial in Japan. Some people claim that mothers should avoid breastfeeding in public such as restaurants as it could provoke immoral, uncomfortable, or embarrassing feelings for others, and there are many arguments for and against this issue. Based on such background, learning objectives and study methods of this research include the following:

1. Reviewing the history of breastfeeding based on research from documentaries;

2. Organizing essential issues on breastfeeding in the current situation using interview data from specialists such as obstetricians, midwives, advocators of child support, architects, and others;

3. Investigating actual situations where mothers breastfed in public spaces by conducting fact finding surveys in various public areas; and

4. Providing guidelines for designing breastfeeding environments that can contribute to creating an infant-friendly society.

In other words, this research reflects the past (1), grasps the present situation (2,3), and explores the future prospects (4) of breastfeeding in public spaces.

Based on several surveys and discussions, our research findings are summarized as follows.

1. Breastfeeding originated in the ancient era as statues or figures represented breastfeeding mothers, and the viewpoint toward it has changed depending on the time and place. In modern Japanese society, breastfeeding is nutritionally recommended but socially disputed.

2. With respect to breastfeeding environments, it is important to understand how diverse people, including not only mothers but also elders and unmarried, feel about it. Diversity is crucial to creating ideal breastfeeding spaces that would obtain a consensus of approval.

3. “Nursing Spaces” in commercial facilities can be oases in modern isolated society, where mothers can relax and communicate with other mothers.

4. Guidelines related to the size, location, color scheme, furniture design, and other factors for designing breastfeeding environments are clearly provided as a concrete conclusion.