"Hey, We have a bunch of brillant researchers!!! They have DISCOVERED that
babies experience less pain when held skin to skin with mom."

This is the study: Skin to Skin Contact Is Analgesic in Healthy Newborns.
(Pediatrics Jan.) [disclaimer - it was done at my hospital, Boston Medical
Center but I was not involved]

Until we have 100% of MDs recommending, supporting, and knowledgeable about
breastfeeding; until we have 100% of US hospitals delivering babies skin to
skin; until we have kangaroo care practiced routinely in all our NICUs  - we
need randomized controlled trials like this which support everything we are
working for.
Pediatrics is the pediatrician's 'gold standard'. Randomized controlled
trials move the medical mind. This data makes doctors listen. This is the
paper we wave in the face of that irritating neonatologist who wants the baby
examined away from Mom in the nursery. When we are trying to convince medical
personel, we MUST HAVE this documentation.
Boston Medical Center became Baby Friendly because we had pediatricians,
obstetricians, neonatologists and family practitioners on board. And they
were on board because an enlightened and powerful pediatrician was leading
the charge, and she educated them on their terms. Credible data well
presented can transform an entire institution.
We complain constantly on Lactnet about doctors and hospitals and we are
right. But if we are going to fix them, we should stand up and cheer for
studies like this. Without them we will always be frustrated.
Anne Merewood IBCLC
Director of Lactation Services, The Breastfeeding Center
Boston Medical Center

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