Wow, Lactnet and the nuts have really been on a roll lately.  Re:  the
questions about girls and breast buds - although I prayed feverently for
girls, I have two wonderful little boys and have really received an education
in this area.  Re:  chocolate - I had no idea that so many people were so well
versed in the many types of chocolate.  I am glad to receive this valuable
info - I will be searching for no less than 60% cocoa solids (thanks Helen
from UK)

Also, in re: to the smoking and BF.  In the BF classes I teach ( in WIC in
Ga), I always recommend that my clients who smoke BF their babies and to limit
their cigs to 10 or less per day.  Sometimes this is a precursor to their
quitting this nasty habit.  ( I can call this a nasty habit, being a former
smoker myself for 2 misguided years...luckily I had SEVERE N&V with my
pregnancy - enough to make ANYONE quit smoking).  Most importantly, I ALWAYS
stress several times over that NO ONE be allowed to smoke around the baby at
any time.  I believe it is much more harmful for little one to be exposed to
second hand smoke than to be exposed to small amounts of nicotine from the
milk of a light to moderate smoking mom.

Now, for the "real" reason I am posting.  Yes, I am quickly approaching my
34th birthday, yet I am a senior at Mercer University.  I am taking a class in
Social Research Methods (yuk, but it's required).  I have been a couple of
days behind in reading my Lactnet issues so last night during class when I
decided to try to do my research project on the incidence of child abuse to BF
children, I had no idea that the wise ones were currently batting this subject
around.  It seems my Irish psychic abilities were at work.  As soon as I had a
chance to read my Lactnet issuses, I have found that this is a "hot topic"
around here.

I chose this subject because it interested me, because I work in this field
and finally, because I knew I had a wonderful resource - the knowledge of all
you helpful people.  Two potential obstacles I face:  1.  finding previous
research on the subject, 2.  finding people willing to be surveyed and be
honest (and totally anonymous).  This is where I need your help.  If anyone is
aware of any research on this subject, please Email me.  I have read the
recent posts on this subject and have already a page of notes started.  This
course (actually, two- eight week courses) is basically an intro to research,
so this effort will not be a comprehensive, exhaustive study.  Rather, it will
be a way for me to get my feet wet in this area, but I am hoping it will be at
least enough to show BF in another positive light (as if we need another).  If
you feel you can help me in any way, I would be truly appreciative.  Also, I
would be glad to hear your ideas on any other suggestions of BF related
subjects for this research project (for a contingency plan).

Thanks so much for all your help.

Amanda Copeland, IBCLC
Griffin, Ga

(and God willing and the creeks don't rise, Class of 2000 - it only took me 13
years to get back to college LOL)