> Realistically, how many of these babies can I expect to go back to the
>breast? Has anyone had success changing hospital policy from the outside?
> Does anyone working in the hospitals have ideas on what I can do besides
>just mopping up?
>
>Don't know what I ever did without you, my sisters in b/f.
>
>Fried, but not quite burnt,
>Ro Andersen, IBCLC
>Winchester, MA
>
Dear Ro,
I try to talk to moms prenatally about the risks of nipple confusion. It is
moderately successful with most moms. One couple, however, took it to the
extreme. The father announced LOUDLY at the birth that if any hospital
personnel gave HIS baby a bottle, he would sue them for malpractice. If
supplements had to be given, they would have to find an alternate way to do it.
Since then, after I tell moms about the risks of artificial nipples, if they
ask how they can prevent having their babies given artificial nipples, I
suggest a crib card.....then I relate the story of the father, chuckle, tell
them that may be a bit extreme but, ..... it is their baby!!!!
Have you considered contacting a newspaper reporter and giving them
referenced resources about the hazards of introducing artificial nipples and
let the hospital explain to educated parents why they do not support
breastfeeding. Good luck!
Linda Pohl, IBCLC
Phoenix, Arizona USA
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