1. "Where are you right now on this scale of infant feeding decisions?"
Complete formula feeding on one end, exclusive breastfeeding on the other,
scale 1-10.  Follow with the question - "how did you pick that place on the
scale?  How firm is your decision right now?"  This can lead into a good
educational session.  Plan to ask this each month or as often as possible
until she births her baby.

Actually, some of us avoid this question entirely and act like she will
breastfeed all along, in all your actions and teaching. Even to the point of
acting surprised if she objects to breastfeeding information, and say "it's
my job to tell you all the facts before the baby is born and a decision is
necessary." I gradually worked into this approach when I taught 11 Lamaze
classes PER WEEK for a few years, with remarkable results. The more
matter-of-fact you treat breastfeeding information, the better accepted it
seems to be.

2. "Have you ever had surgery on your breasts?"  is a good question. How you
(the interviewer) responds is very important - you can ask the question
matter-of-fact, and find some reason to compliment her having good equipment
for breastfeeding, or avoiding drugs during birth (etc) to make breastfeeding
easier for her. Whatever you say, imply that she will breastfeed, even if you
don't actually say it.

Linda Smith, Dayton OH - have used these questions in childbirth classes for
years.