> I am not sure of exactly how
>to handle this, but I would probably be tempted to tell her candidly that
>her feelings are not normal, but are there for a reason that deserves to
>be explored and should not be ignored.


Dear Lisa,  Not to be nitpicky, but giving  the abused mother situation
further thought,  I think that I might put it something like this... " These
feelings are not common.  You probably have other feelings concerning
breastfeeding and mothering , and it might be an excellent idea to discuss
these with a health professional experienced in such matters."

I am afraid that if she thinks that her feelings are not "normal", that this
will cause further trauma and panic.  Feelings of anger while breastfeeding
may be a perfectly normal response in the cas e of history of abuse.

Kathleen

*********************************************************************

Kathleen B. Bruce RN, BSN, IBCLC (email = [log in to unmask])
"All truth goes through three stages. First it is ridiculed. Then it is
violently opposed. Finally, it is accepted as self-evident." Schoepenhouer
**********************************************************************