I want to introduce myself as I have yet to post. My name is Jennifer Tow. I
am the mother of 3 bf children (one as I type this) and an IBCLC in private
practice in CT. I have extensive experience working in a hospital clinic and
working with families from diverse socio-economic backgrounds as well as
working within the natural birth community..

In a message dated 3/22/00 4:58:10 PM, [log in to unmask] writes:

<< I have no fugures, but I do see much too many smoking pregnant and
lactating

women, I'm afraid. But  re breastfeeding I'd say that breastfeeding and
smoking

is better than smoking and not breastfeeding. In the latter the child will
have

the negative effects of second hand smoking whitout the protection of

breastfeeding. I personally think that second hand smoking has more negative

effects (for it lasts longer) than ''smoked'' breastmilk consumption.

BTW one aspect of smoking you did not mention is the possibility of milkyield

reduction. >>

I have noted through observation that mothers seem more inclined to smoke
away from their babies when they breastfeed than if they af. Further, this
may also include a ban on fathers or others smoking near the baby Or even in
the home. My guess is that there is an increased awareness of general infant
health with the decision to bf. I agree that the risk of af and smoking is
greater than the risk of bf and smoking. But, I do try to encourage a
reduction in number of cigarettes smoked and suggest mothers may find their
babies will nurse more often than they might if the mother did not smoke.
Jennifer Tow, IBCLC

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