Tony,
From my perspective, I look at multiple births and assume that the mother
did not do much breastfeeding, or else breastfed inappropriately (as on a
schedule), resulting in early return of fertility and subsequent
pregnancies.

The Texas mother was a homeschooler and may also have been a "quiverful"
mom, one of those families who do not believe in birth control but rather in
allowing God to dictate the size of their families. In traditional societies
that practice unrestricted breastfeeding, babies are spaced out 2-3+ years.
In our society, however, we see a rapid return of fertility because of how
we manage the breastfeeding relationship. As a result, couples with a
"traditional" approach to family planning are going to experience great
hardship when they are not also practicing "traditional", unrestricted
breastfeeding.

It is sad to see an induced depression that may be the result of
incompatible beliefs regarding breastfeeding vs fertility practices. IMO,
the incompatible breastfeeding practices are often the result of man-made
programs that are given the same religious status as the scriptures upon
which the "quiverful" philosophy is based. Specifically, Ezzoite and
Gothardite families are at high risk for this dilemma. I have read posts
from some of their boards where the mothers express their stress over their
workloads, and their guilt for not feeling happier about their latest
pregnancy or baby. I hope that the current Texas case is scrutinized closely
for ALL contributing factors.

Lisa Marasco

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