I am forwarding this to the group from Norma Herr Harris, a fellow public health breastfeeding advocate who has completed the IBCLC exam and is awaiting the results. She writes: I was enraged by a booklet I recently received from US______care (insurance company) titled "Caring for Your Baby." This was provided as part of their "L'il Appleseed Program" for expectant moms. I called the program today and spoke with the supervisor who said she is the one who would handle any concerns. She welcomes any comments. The booklet was written in 1991 and is being revised now. Some of the content that bothers me is of course related to breastfeeding (although not limited to this topic!) For instance: "...even breastfeeding mothers should keep at least one or two bottles with nipples on hand in case they miss a feeding due to illness, absence or breast infection." "Some experts believe that breastmilk is nutritionally superior to formula and that breastfeeding forges a unique bond between mother and child. You may find some of the other aspects of breastfeeding less aggreeable. You may feel self-consious...restrict your social activities...may not like some of the discomforts such as engorgement...milk leakage and breast soreness...you will have to continue to watch your diet..." "Bottle feeding is fairly easy to understand and master, but breastfeeding saometimes presents a bit more of a challenge to new mothers." "Bottle feeding has many advantages...incredibly convenient...share feedings...extra time to rest...allows you to skip some of those dreadful middle-or-the-night feeding." I am SURE you get the idea. I am trying to draft a response to this but since I'm also trying to prepare for a baby and maternity leave. I have gotten to page 17 out of 50, so far. If anyone would like to respond please e-mail Linda for appropriate address: "Linda Inglis"[[log in to unmask]] or snail mail: Norma Herr Harris RD 520 N Franklin St. Pottstown, Pa 19464