It is a wonderful idea to teach nursing throughout a childbirth series rather than in one class!    However, teaching advantages of formula to a childbirth class attended by families who have not actively decided to forgo breastfeeding is problematic at least and is not congruent with: 

Information regarding artificial feeding should only be provided to "mothers or family members who need to use it; and the information given should include a clear explanation of the hazards of improper use." (article 6.5: WHO/UNICEF, The International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes, 1981). 

In other words, information about artificial feeding should not be taught at the prenatal stage and should only be taught to families who are actively engaging in this activity. The purpose of providing this information is to ensure that the product is used in the safest way possible.


Presenting two issues in a comparative manner creates the false pretense that they are equal in some way, even if one is obviously "better" than the other. This complies with the "equivalency position", a marketing tool that is used widely. 

Keren Epstein-Gilboa MEd BScN RN FACCE LCCE IBCLC PhD (Candidate)

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