Comments on: Capitalism and Breastfeeding

By: kmcdade

kmcdade — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:24:21 +0000

Fortunately, more and more hospitals are choosing NOT to send the formula samples and coupons home with everyone. Check out the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative. And yes, the pharmaceutical companies and their constant advertising are another good example.

By: kmcdade

kmcdade — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:20:01 +0000

Good point. I know you can rent a pump too; not sure how that compares to the price of formula.

We could also make it easier for women to stay home as long as possible (Momsrising.org is an advocate of parental leave legislation).

By: Bridget Pilloud

Bridget Pilloud — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 07:29:10 +0000

I remember when I brought my kids home from the hospital, we came home with free cans of formula and coupons for more, even though I knew I would be breast feeding my children.

I don’t know if they still do this, but it’s heartbreaking to think that there are mothers out there who believe that their own milk is not as good as formula.

Other businesses do this too. Just look at the mess we’re in with pharmaceutical companies. Sigh.
Bridget Pilloud´s last blog ..A Colorful New Year

By: Corina

Corina — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 06:17:04 +0000

We can also start in our own back yard. Women are pretty much forced into using formula by the high cost of pumps and accessories. If a woman needs to go back to work right after the child is born, they either have to purchase a very expensive pump or use formula. The formula is usually chosen because it’s the “affordable at the moment” choice. If the price of pumps came down to an affordable range, working women could continue to supply their child with breast milk instead of having to put them on formula.
Corina´s last blog ..The Past Decade–Part One