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Subject:
From:
Mik McEwen <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Thu, 19 Jul 2001 12:30:52 EDT
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I hope this isn't too OT, but wanted your thoughts.

I was meeting a private bfing education client who did not know that I am
also a LLLL.  As I was assessing her support system, she said that the
hospital nurse giving the sibling class told the class "if you are having a
problem breastfeeding, call us.  Whatever you do, do not call La Leche
League..they are a bunch of fanatics."

I am upset on two levels.  One is the fact that women are being steered away
from LLL.  In defense of LLL and our group, we have had numerous mothers
bottle feed formula at meetings which I think attests to the fact that we are
nonjudgmental and present information and options, not "fanatical" opinions.
I may get slammed here, but many of the bfing problems I encounter are the
result of some medical persons good intentions like "screwing the baby on"
the breast, giving out nipple shields, etc.  From what I have heard
personally, when a discharged mother calls this particular hospital about
bfing problems, they are given misinformation from any nurse that answers the
phone (most recent case being mother told it is OK to take excedrin while
bfing).

I am also hurt on a personal level because I put a lot of time, effort and
compassion into helping mothers BF as a VOLUNTEER for LLL.  I doubt the
medical personnel bashing LLL take phone calls AT HOME from desperate mothers
during their families dinnertime, their children's bathtime or bedtimes.

My questions are:
1.  Have you ever had a situation like this?  What was done?
2.  What would be the most effective way to stop this nurse from saying this
without totally validating her opinion of LLL?
3.  Should I just leave it be and not try to save the world here (thinking
about the starfish story).

Thanks!

Mik McEwen, MPH, LLL

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