In a message dated 11/13/01 2:29:39 AM, [log in to unmask] writes:

<<  The book
does indeed contain a lengthy discussion of breast milk
contamination.  However, I suggest, Ruth, that you read the book
before deciding that it has the power to dissuade even one woman from
breastfeeding, doing "a disservice to us all." >>

I do intend to read this book, but have not done so as yet (but I have read
the posts and heard an interview). I think it is important to talk about this
issue. As I have said before, if bf advocates do not raise uncomfortable
issues, b/c we are afraid they will keep women from bf'ing, we are making a
serious error. If we don't raise these issues, others will, and they are not
likely to take the same position that we will. The reality is that we do live
in a dangerously polluted world and it is essential, IMO, that we question
its impact on bf'ing. If we come from the premise that bf is essential to
human health and well-being, then anything that adversely affects bf'ing
deserves our attention. The point is not that we shouldn't bf b/c of toxins,
but that there shouldn't be toxins b/c babies must be bf. By avoiding the
issue of environmental toxins, we allow those who ultimately do address it to
define it's course, most likely in a way that will not benefit mothers and
babies. If we raise the issue, then we have the best hope of being the ones
to define its course. We cannot allow fear to keep us from talking about this
and we certainly can't allow fear to be justification for attacking our
allies.
Jennifer Tow, IBCLC, CT, USA

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