I want to comment briefly on the whole breastfeeding thing. I spend a good amount of time with lactation research assistants and have received a steady input of info around this matter.
The fact that Barbara Walters was freaking out over some woman breastfeeding is the saddest and most pitiful thing in teh world. Studies have shown the many benefits of breastfeeding over formula. breastmilk updates the baby's immunity, suckling on the breast shapes the baby's mouth correctly, babies who are breastfed generally do better. it helps brain development, and is major bonding tool between mom and baby. they even make contraptions to simulate breastfeeding for adoptive or non-breastfeeding mothers (like if they are on medications that could be harmful to their baby) so that they can simulate that experience. unfortunately, even children's hospitals do not have the proper facilities for breastfeeding mothers. one of the leading researchers in teh field, Dr. Diane Spatz, works at CHOP and breastfeeding among moms and staff has tripled since she pushed for special rooms and to make breastpumps readily available.
it's sad that someone would be so prude that they couldn't handle seeing a breast (YOU CAN'T EVEN SEE THE ALL OFFENSIVE NIPPLE WHILE BREASTFEEDING!). I love seeing breastfeeding women because the points listed above.
of course, maybe barbara walters was uncomfortable with seeing a breast because of a homosexual feeling it might have stirred in her. who knows.
as far as the africa story is concerned, I just don't have enough information about social norms, etc, to comment on why Ethiopian women would not like seeing a white woman breastfeeding.
it might have been because of a totally unrelated issue. who knows.
interestingly, here in philly the rates of breastfeeding among young (as in teen and early 20's)african american mothers is very high! they really get into it.
For lower income women, WIC ("women, infants and children" - a government program that gives food coupons to mothers with small children) gives them more food if they breastfeed, since they are feeding two people with the food they eat.
Breast milk can keep for months if frozen. you can also buy breastmilk on EBAY! do a search. personally I would only buy breast milk from an "attractive" mom ;)
anyway, JP, glad that the earthquakes didn't "shake you up" too much. hehe. was worried though. don't be afraid of a savage cross country burn to the east coast if the tremors get to be too much.
all from me,
H
- posted by H @ 6/17/2005 12:29:00 PM