<I don't know why we are not blunter about the economics of bf during
pregnancy. Why not come right out and say, "I imagine you'll be bf;
artificial substitutes are so expensive"? The money argument is
sometimes more compelling, especially when the family is facing so many
barriers to optimal health anyway. The gold standard, free of charge!I
know I'm being overly simplistic... it's just that some things are soooo
simple.>

Makes good sense to me, Jo-Anne! This is my parting conversation with
many WIC mothers who ask for the full allotment of WIC formula,
especially when they are going back to work, and feel that pumping is not
feasible for them.

I hasten to tell them that the total allotment WIC can provide only
fulfills the calorie needs of a newborn. It will not increase as the baby
gets older. A lot of mothers seem not to have considered this information
till I put it this way.

I underscore the fact they will eventually have to spend some of their
hard-earned money on extra formula, (and I quote the current price!)
unless they maintain a partial milk supply by breastfeeding when they are
home with the baby.

Then I cap it off with "Isn't it wonderful you can also continue to give
your baby so many protective immunities during this cold and flu season!"

Seems to be pretty persuasive.

Jean
*********
K. Jean Cotterman RNC, IBCLC
Dayton, Ohio USA

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