I have to respectfully disagree about use of "sticks".  I don't know any IBCLCs in my area who use shame women. I am absolutely getting sick and tired of this constant media perception that this is what IBCLCs do.  I DO know many online chat rooms where moms shame each other.  In terms of the balance, I would say that there is more shaming of mothers who breastfeeding longer than other mothers think they should than the other way around - but all in all it is a big free for all.  

I think the reason why so much shaming goes on, at least in my little area of the world, is because mothers have far less experience hanging around babies before they have their own than at any time in the past.  So, they get excited when they figure out something that works and cling to that and push it on all the other mothers because they are insecure.

We all use carrots. Sometimes I think a little stick now and then might actually be helpful, but to date I've never used it.

Best, Susan

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