I am forwarding this to the group from Norma Herr Harris, a fellow public
health breastfeeding advocate who has completed the IBCLC exam and is
awaiting the results.

She writes:
I was enraged by a booklet I recently received from US______care
(insurance company) titled "Caring for Your Baby."  This was provided as
part of their "L'il Appleseed Program" for expectant moms.  I called the
program today and spoke with the supervisor who said she is the one who
would handle any concerns.  She welcomes any comments.  The booklet was
written in 1991 and is being revised now.  Some of the content that
bothers me is of course related to breastfeeding (although not limited to
this topic!)

For instance: "...even breastfeeding mothers should keep at least one or
two bottles with nipples on hand in case they miss a feeding due to
illness, absence or breast infection."  "Some experts believe that
breastmilk is nutritionally superior to formula and that breastfeeding
forges a unique bond between mother and child.  You may find some of the
other aspects of breastfeeding less aggreeable.  You may feel
self-consious...restrict your social activities...may not like some of the
discomforts such as engorgement...milk leakage and breast soreness...you
will have to continue to watch your diet..."  "Bottle feeding is fairly
easy to understand and master,  but breastfeeding saometimes presents a
bit more of a challenge to new mothers."  "Bottle feeding has many
advantages...incredibly convenient...share feedings...extra time to
rest...allows you to skip some of those dreadful middle-or-the-night
feeding."  I am SURE you get the idea.  I am trying to draft a response to
this but since I'm also trying to prepare for a baby and maternity leave.
 I have gotten to page 17 out of 50, so far.

If anyone would like to respond please e-mail Linda for appropriate
address:
"Linda Inglis"[[log in to unmask]] or snail mail: Norma Herr Harris RD
520 N Franklin St.  Pottstown, Pa 19464