Since a large company name has come up in this discussion the
obvious next point IMHO would be to suggest that this company get to
work finding out why their employees are finding it hard to keep
breastfeeding after returning to work.

If they want a scientific answer, make it a study.  Show how
creating more support for continuing breastfeeding impacts on their
workplace.  B.G. loves good press.  Wouldn't he love to be able to
have a leading edge lactation support program?  They can certainly
afford it.

Why look at rigid, irrational feeding choices instead of just making
it easier for the babies to get what they need:  Breastfeeding and
breastmilk until they outgrow the need.  As Jack has said it is not
just about breastmilk.  It is about nurturing.  Babies aren't
nurtured by an inane discussion of what fluid goes into the bottle X
how many months.  Babies are not scientific formulas.  (Sorry for
the pun.)

Encouraging a supportive parenting approach which includes lactation
support would do more for the health of the children. Maybe even an
onsite daycare.  Perhaps a volunteer committee could examine the
issues and set up a proposal like the one mentioned earlier this
month on Lactnet.

I can see how this will be an increasing issue at this company as
their wonderkind's mature into parents.
--
Janet Vandenberg, RN, BScN,
Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
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