As a Lactation Specialist in Mississippi, I too become disillusioned with the
prenatal moms that I meet daily during my prenatal clinic days at the Health
Dept.  These are the moms who are 8 to 12 weeks along in their pregnancy.  I
try to share their concerns and questions about breastfeeding.  Not only do
they want to formula feed...but some REFUSE to learn more or even think
 about the advantages of breastfeeding and how breast milk is superior to
formula.  Some  even admit that they really "don't care".  I can not
understand why anyone would refuse to learn more about taking the best care
of their infant.  Doesn't everyone want the "best" for their offspring?  The
apathy is overwhelming.  You can certainly tell that these infants are
dressed with the finest clothes, have the best baby carrier that money can
buy. But these mothers refuse to even consider giving them the best when it
comes to food and emotional needs.   Later on, when I check on the progress
of their pregnancy and birth, I find that many have had premature births or
that their babies were allergic to the formula that was given to them.  Some
babies have already been hospitalized for gastrointestinal viruses and the
like.  I find myself questioning this society and what it has become.  I too
have resorted to "planting seeds"....maybe they'll consider breastfeeding
with the next child.  It's comforting to know that from time to time we all
get discouraged  from dealing with these issues.  I am addicted to Lactnet.
Karen Lynne Christopher, LS