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Subject:
From:
Dave and Nancy Penney <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Fri, 6 Sep 1996 00:44:22 -0500
Content-Type:
text/plain
Parts/Attachments:
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I just stumbled on a glossy web site from "Applied Medical Infomatics".
It's an easy-to-use searchable site with info on diseases, drug
interactions, symptoms, injuries, lab tests, etc. for both adults and
children.  That is the good news.

Although some accurate information is presented, the sections on BF are
generally dreadful. I'll include excerpts from the "breastfeeding" page
as a postscript.  Visit the site (http://www.ami-med.com/consumer.htm)
when you're not already mad.  Read the section on "formula feeding" and
guess who subsidized it.  I wouldn't fight this fire except that much of
the rest of the site is excellent, and it all looks so respectable.

Sadly,

~~ Nancy Penney

The "breastfeeding" page, http://www.ami-med.com/peds/top/002450.htm,
includes:

"Feeding your baby breast-milk or bottled formula are both healthy and
responsible decisions, each with advantages and disadvantages...
Breast feeding [sic] your baby (directly from the breast):
    can only be done by you
    can be done exclusively or can be supplemented with bottle feedings
    involves you making a major commitment
Breastfeeding is a natural function but is not necessarily a natural
instinct for mothers. Most mothers need education...
THE DECISION NOT TO BREASTFEED
Many situations or circumstances can change your plans to
breastfeed. How and what your baby eats may ultimately depend on
the infant's physical condition and your health after birth.
Some babies are unable to adequately breastfeed due to:
    premature birth
    small size
    weak physical condition
    difficulty sucking
    birth defects of the mouth (cleft lip or cleft palate)
    digestive problems (breast milk jaundice, galactosemia)
Some mothers are unable to breastfeed because of:
    breast infection or breast abscess
    breast cancer or other cancer
    previous surgery or radiation treatment
    inadequate milk supply (uncommon)
Some mothers are advised NOT to breastfeed due to health problems
such as:
    serious illnesses (heart disease or cancer, for example)
    active, untreated tuberculosis
    HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection or AIDS
    active herpes lesions on the breast
    severe malnutrition

QUESTIONS THAT MAY BE HELPFUL FOR MOTHERS TO ASK
ARE:
    How will I cope with the fatigue associated with frequent
    breastfeeding?
    How will breastfeeding my baby affect my other relationships
    (such as with my husband/partner)?
    How will I cope with my child's dependence on me for food?
    How will I cope with the physical discomforts of breastfeeding?
    How long should I breastfeed my child?
Moms who breastfeed may experience:
    nipple soreness
    breast engorgement
    leaking breasts
    let-down reflex (other than during breastfeeding)
    inadequate milk supply
    difficulty knowing how much milk the baby is drinking
Moms who breastfeed their babies may feel:
    confused by lack of experience or support
    afraid or ashamed to ask for help for such a "natural" activity
    overwhelmed by the time commitment
    exhausted by the frequent feedings (every 2 to 3 hours, day and
    night)
    socially isolated from other relationships and activities
    frightened by conflicting emotions of enjoyment and resentment

Note: Cow's milk by itself is not an adequate source of complete
nutrition for infants. Commercially prepared formulas for bottle feeding
are excellent sources of nutrition for babies that do not breastfeed. "

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