Dear Pierette,
What I think the group is trying to say is that if a mother wants to indulge
in a small amount of alcohol she can and still breastfeed.  I don't think
anyone is suggesting that mothers abuse drugs and alcohol and try and take
care of their babies.
For so long there have been these RULES that mothers had to follow in order
to breastfeed their children; no drinking, smoking, drugs of any kind,
dieting, exercise, ect.....ect.  This is not true, in respect to
breastfeeding.  It is true in part to PARENTING, and that is where I feel the
distinction should be made.  Are there habits of the parents that may not be
in the best interest of their children?
When I teach my classes, I let them know there are no rules for breastfeeding
because it is the best option.  I then go on to say that this does not mean
that the expecting parents can then go out on binges or partake in risky
behaviors, because this is not reasonable parenting.  That is the operative
word not breastfeeding.
I hope this clears up this issue for the group.  I cringe when I read or hear
that breastfeeding mothers are restricted in their life because they are
giving the best for their babies, so does this mean mothers who formula feed
can be reckless?
Think about the message being delivered.
Ann Perry RN IBCLC
Boston, MA

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