joelle,
I used the breastpads only in the initial 3 months. Very ugly behind the padless bra leh... cos I wore fitting clothings. It looked like I was wearing uneven surfaced bra. I realised that if we do not pump, the breasts will not leak unless it's engorged. I stopped pumping at 3 months and latch on directly. That time I bought 4 boxes of breastpads, and I only used one box!
I nurse my son in public sometimes. I will find a corner if it's in restaurants. Else usually I will go to those breastfeeding rooms. Which shopping centers I went will depend on whether there's breastfeeding facility. Sometimes no choice, so just breastfeed. Cos babies cannot wait when hungry. The longer they wait, the louder the cries, and the worse the attention from the public. Can use sling or cloth to cover. I think sometimes no cover, not so attention attracting..