Check out this article for an interesting debate about the WIC program providing mothers formula and what message that action might be sending to people who are not well educated on how much of a difference breastfeeding does make:
http://rixarixa.blogspot.com/2010/02/new-wic-breastfeeding-package.html
I wish there were more people at the hospital trying to help moms learn how to breastfeed, rather than handing us diaper bags full of formula. Don't get me wrong. I don't think formula is evil. But I do think that parents and parents-to-be should receive education and advice instead of multiple cans of formula.
If there is one thing I think mommies interested in breastfeeding should know before going to the hospital, it is the following:
There are lactation consultants. They are beyond helpful. Ask to see one at the hospital. Find out ahead of time if there are LC's at your hospital or at your pediatrician's office.
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Great that WIC made these changes, they also offer vegetarian options like soymilk and tofu for those with a documented need, thanks to the Obama administration! Woooooo!
ReplyDeleteI think that parents to be should also understand that it is their choice not the hospital staff's. If they choose to breastfeed the hospital must respect that. The baby is born with enough nutrition stored up that they can go a couple days of "practicing" breastfeeding, if they don't catch on right away they don't need to supplement with formula.
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