Karen--
While I think it would be lovely if all women breastfed, I think this doctor
is taking a very unwise approach. I've done a talk at conferences based on
the book "What's a Smart Woman Like You Doing At Home?" and have said that
if someone told me I HAD to stay home with my children, I'd have been out
looking for work the next day. Maybe it would have been the same with
breastfeeding. I'm kind of contrary and don't like being told what I HAVE to
do. This doctor is doing damage without intending to because I doubt I'm the
only woman out there who feels as I do.

On the topic of recommending Lactnet. The great thing about this list is
that it's full of fabulous information, but also provides support and humour
in a relaxed way. It's obvious that to most of the participants on here,
breastfeeding is the natural way babies are fed and for many of us, it was a
peak experience in our lives (which is probably why we are so passionate
about our work). If others find this attitude offensive, I say "tough." We
get enough opposition and have to be so careful with how we phrase
everything every day, it's a relief to be able to talk to others here who
feel the same about this topic. I don't think it's "unprofessional" to
discuss the range of topics you see here--this is much like an LLL
meeting--take what you can use and leave the rest. Tell people they'll need
to come here with an open mind, but by all means, try us out. (And don't be
afraid to ask questions that might not be popular--they often need to be asked.)

Leslie
Leslie Ayre-Jaschke, BEd, IBCLC
Peace River Breastfeeding Clinic
Peace River Alberta, Canada