Are you aware that babies who are not fed at the breast have a higher
incidence of orthodontic problems? That the visual acuity will not be
as well developed? That many of the immunological mechanisms operate
as a result of the baby nursing at the breast? Are you aware of the
"bonding" that occurs at the breast? That babies who receive
artificial nipples are more likely to wean prematurely? That it can be
difficult to maintain an adequate supply through exclusive pumping?
That fertility will return sooner, thus mitigating some of
breastfeeding's protective effects regarding the mother's development
of cancer? Did you know that mothers who put their babies to breast
when they get home from work are more likely to exhibit job
satisfaction and feel better about their time away from babies?

Since all these issues are reality, are we not to educate mothers
about them? Are we worried about making them feel guilty? Are we
old-fashioned?

I'm sorry, but I find this post shockingly short-sighted and
unsupportive of normal infant feeding practices.

Once again, my perspective is that there is a time and a place for
breastpumps, bottles, teats, etc. ALL of those items should be
marketed ethically, both because it is the right thing to do (pumps)
and because there is a code governing those practices. As IBCLCs we
have agreed to uphold that code. Yes, there are shades of gray. But
being rabidly supportive of the Code does not mean one is unsupportive
of mothers who must be separated from their babies or ignorant of the
financial realities of said mothers.

And anyway, how could the Code reflect the current times in all
cultures? That is impossible and equally short-sighted. This isn't
about being popular, it's about doing the right thing.

Talk about not seeing the forest through the trees.

Gina Gerboth, IBCLC, CD(DONA), CBE
Pueblo, Colorado
www.safepassagebirth.com

On Mon, Mar 9, 2009 at 6:38 AM,  <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> I am a Lactation Consultant in a SCN/NICU in the states. The reality in my
> world is babies get bottles. My partners and I work very very hard to make
> sure these babies get breastmilk in those bottles, NOT formula. Families on
> the Mother/Baby unit will tell you most moms are returning to work. Reality,
> bottles. Will I stop using Medela products that help these moms provide
> milk? No!!!!
> In my humble opinion, the Code should be revised to reflect the needs and
> culture of the times in all countries. Without changes, there is division
> within, and the one who suffers from all of the opposition is the baby, who
> deserves to receive mom's milk.  We should be promoting breastmilk, however
> the family choses, instead of focusing on the vehicle by which it is being
> delivered.
> Christine Gabler, RNC, IBCLC
>
>            ***********************************************
>

             ***********************************************

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