This is a very interesting thread.  I also believe women should be empowered
to stand up for themselves, advocate for their rights, and certainly let a
doctor know that his receptionists is far from promoting and protecting
breastfeeding as we on this list all know is the very best for the babies of
the world.

I believe empowerment is a process and if we were not taught this at home,
and many of us weren't, it is something we will hopefully learn from role
models along the way.  I sent a letter to this mother letting her know she
should write a letter to the pediatrician and if not given a satisfactory
response, she should seek another pediatrician and send another letter
explaining why.  Her LC who originally wrote will, I'm sure, give her
similar advice.  If this mother is a new mother and has not come from a
family where most of the children were breastfeeding and breastfeeding
openly was the norm, then she may not be too sure of  the rules.  Once she
gets positive feedback from some of us, she may very well feel empowered to
stand up for herself in future situations.

I personally am very capable of living on my own without a man as I did it
for many years, but I am very aware that men and women have differences, and
our separate strengths can be a great compliment to each other.  I know how
to change a tire and I can open a pickle jar when the need arises, but I
much prefer having a cell phone and AAA and a husband who has no need to
heat the jar before opening it.

Anne Nans, RN, IBCLC
Fredericksburg, VA
Mom to Caleb, Amy and Riley 12/17/98 and #4 due 12/10/00

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