The University is Finally Installing Breastfeeding Pods, and We Love It
You may have seen these futuristic breastfeeding pods at airports, and now, the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) is providing them for students and faculty who need a private space to breastfeed or pump.
A Shift in Public Perception
Public breastfeeding is no longer considered shameful. Just a few years ago, even Pope Francis encouraged mothers to breastfeed publicly in church, whereas previously, he had long insisted that mothers breastfeed in bathrooms.
But this was not always the case. In the past, if mothers did not completely cover themselves while breastfeeding, they often felt shame for breastfeeding in public. After several high-profile incidents, where mothers were asked to leave public places while breastfeeding, a movement was launched in Toronto to inform people that breastfeeding is a human right. This movement had a significant impact.
The Challenge of Finding a Comfortable Space
Although awareness of breastfeeding and chest feeding has increased, and there’s greater acceptance of the fact that babies need to be fed—whether by bottle or breast—it is not always easy for parents to find a comfortable place to breastfeed or pump when out of the house.
For students, especially, who may not have the luxury of parental leave to care for their infants at home, finding a comfortable space to breastfeed or pump is crucial.
UTM Takes Action
The University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) is addressing this issue. Recently, the school became the second university in Canada to offer Mamava breastfeeding pods to students (following the Toronto Humber College).
You may have seen breastfeeding pods in airports or retail stores. These are standalone spaces designed to provide clean, comfortable, and private options for breastfeeding or pumping.
Current Spaces at UTM
While the University of Toronto has already provided dedicated breastfeeding and pumping spaces across its three campuses, these options are not always appealing or convenient. The recommended locations are typically based on 9-5 office hours, which doesn’t help many students (including those attending evening classes).
For parents who need to pump, doing so in public can feel awkward, especially if equipment and power outlets are necessary.
Why Mamava Pods?
Kaye Francis, Manager of the Family Care Office, stated in a recent article on the university’s website:
“Before the pandemic, we received an urgent request to find resources for a student because there were no available spaces at night. We started looking for new options.”
The Mamava pods are available to students, staff, and even visitors to the campus attending workshops or conferences.
A Step Toward Inclusivity
The installation of the Mamava pods is a further step in UTM’s commitment to providing an inclusive environment for all. Jennifer Hartman, from the UTM Communications Office, explained:
“Of course, installing one pod in one place is just the beginning. As students have gradually returned to campus since February 2022, we’ll gather more feedback on the pod’s usage and frequency this year. Whether additional pods are needed (at UTM or one of the other two campuses) will be determined based on the usage of this pod and feedback from the university community.”
The Features of the Mamava Pod
The Mamava pods are designed to offer:
- Comfortable, private space
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Equipped with two benches, power outlets, mirrors, lighting, shelves, Bluetooth smart locks, and charging stations.
These pods are free to use and are controlled through the Mamava app, available on both the App Store and Google Play. This design allows for self-use, with no need for reservations. The app will notify users when the pod is available, with a first-come, first-served policy.
A Better Future for Parents
Breastfeeding and chest-feeding parents should be allowed to feed or pump anytime and anywhere, but everyone is different, and some still prefer complete privacy.
Facilities like UTM’s breastfeeding pods give parents more options and greater flexibility.
Attention, universities across Canada!