I just met a woman (Long Island born, back here just for a year) from Norway. She's a childbirth educator, and thus a soul mate. Ah me... prenatal care for all, 95% bf initiation rate, certified Baby-Friendly hospitals, 75% bf at 6 months, a year's maternity leave w/ 80% pay. I didn't know whether to cheer because it *can* be done and *is* being done, or gnash my teeth because so few people here think so or care. She says when her clients moan about how the world treats mothers, she reminds them it could be a lot worse, and tells them about US. Interesting sidelight: Since they began mandating that women stop work 3 weeks before their due date, they've seen a drop in infant mortality. She thinks it's because women go into labor rested and thus have fewer labor complications. Diane Wiessinger, MS, IBCLC, LLLL Ithaca, NY USA (Unenlightened, Stubborn America)