When I talk about and encourage birthing at home, it is not because I am crazy or anti-hospital for those that need it. It is because too many women end up unnecessarily having to heal from a major incision (both cesarean and episiotomy) , and too many babies are put at risk by the drugs and intervention commonly used in the hospital. That is fact, not opinion. For low-risk women, more complications occur in the hospital than they do at home. That is fact, not opinion. The maternity ward is the only space in the hospital where healthy, strong people willingly go to complete a physiological event in their life … surrounded by the sick, wounded, and dying. For low-risk women, you and your baby are at higher risk of developing a life-threatening infection in the hospital, or suffer the consequences of a severe medical error, than you are of having a life-threatening complication that cannot be handled at home. A recent study in Emerging Infectious Diseases found that hospital-acquired infections are the sixth leading cause of death nationally . An average of 195,000 people in the USA died due to potentially preventable, in-hospital medical errors in each of the years 2000, 2001 and 2002, according to a study of 37 million patient records that was released by HealthGrades. At least 44,000 people, and perhaps as many as 98,000 people die in hospitals each year as a result of medical errors that could have been prevented. I talk about these things because women walk away from the often traumatic hospital birth believing that it was their body that failed them and their baby – and sometimes put their baby at risk – rather than the very practices that are common in the hospital. Nearly all of the complication-ridden, scary hospital birth stories that I hear of were avoidable. They included misinformation, or outright lies, by their care provider followed by intervention in the physiologic process. Their body never failed them or their baby. Their care provider and the medical system did.
When I talk about keeping your sons whole, it is not because I have never been in the position to believe this to be best. In fact, one of my sons is circumcised. I talk about it because no one did so when we were in that position. No one encouraged us to look into the research that shows the risks – not only of death, but of permanent injury and disfigurement. No one encouraged us to do some Biblical research to find that for Christians, not only is circumcision not required, it is spoken against by Paul. No one provoked the thought process of circumcision being a irreversible, permanent alteration of someone else's body … even though that body “belongs” to us, so to speak. I often hear people say that circumcision is a personal decision for each parent. The one thing that is lost in this is that the baby has no choice in something that is done, rather brutally, to his body. He has no power to say no. He will only have to live with the results (and possible complications) for the rest of his life. For some men, this includes sexual dysfunction. God created the foreskin for a reason. It is not without function, it is not without purpose.
When I talk about breastfeeding being one of the most important choices you can make for your baby, that is fact, not opinion. Breast milk is literally the only perfect substance for your baby for the first year of his life. Baby needs nothing else in that first year to grow, develop, and be happy. Breast milk is the only substance that a baby's digestive system can efficiently break down. Babies are literally hardwired to breastfeed. They know how to get to the breast without anyone putting them there. They know how to nurse without anyone showing them how. This is especially true when a mother has given her baby the gift of a physiologic birth – no drugs or interruption in the bonding process immediately following birth. When I talk about breastfeeding it is not because I am being judgmental of those women who don't, it is because every baby has a birthright to breastfeed, and many are deprived of this right. Breast milk is not only a complete nutrition, it also completes the baby's immune system with antibodies that will help shield baby from illness. It is a powerful healing agent – capable of wiping out eye infections, ear infections, diaper rash, and even acne. Breastfeeding your baby helps protect against SIDS, reduces the risk of childhood obesity, raises IQ levels, and increases both jaw and eye health. And let's face it ladies – we lactate for a reason. It is our God-given super ability. It should be used, if nothing else but for the health of our children.
When I talk about co-sleeping, it is not because I am afraid a predator will come and snatch away baby if he is in the other room. It is because studies have shown that co-sleeping (even if just in the same room) reduces the rates of SIDS, aids nighttime feedings, and makes baby feel more secure. A baby spends 10 months inside of his mother, listening to the beating of her heart, the sound of her breathing and her voice, and is comforted knowing that she is there. Imagine going from this place of comfort and security, to being isolated from the one being you trust to keep you safe. Here's where I get controversial : I find it cruel to put baby in another room. A baby should, at the very least, be allowed the security of being in the same room with mom and dad. Hearing the familiar sounds, and knowing that they are right there in case of need. The best advice that I can give new parents is to put the money into a savings account that they would have spent on a nursery. Baby doesn't need a nursery – baby needs you. They are very simple that way, it is us adults that make it much more complicated than it needs to be.
When I talk about baby wearing, it is not because I am a hippie – though I do not take offense to this. Ha! It is because baby feels the most safe and secure when in the arms of someone who loves him. Instead of being constantly buckled into a car seat, baby can be up on your chest, listening to you breathe, your heart beat, and your voice. As baby gets older, he can see everything that you see. He can be at eye-level with people, allowed to interact. Baby also stays content much longer through a shopping trip, walk, or even housework. It has also been shown that babies who are worn rather than placed in a seat have much fewer incidences of skull deformities. Some babies who are commonly placed in a seat end up needing to wear a corrective helmet due to the flattening of the back of the skull. I also cringe and feel twinges in my back and arms when I see moms toting around the heavy car seat with baby buckled in. With the right carrier, you won't feel pain, and baby will be content. It really is about making things easier for mom, and making baby feel the most loved and secure!
When I talk about any of these things, I am not being judgmental. Do I get sad when I think about what is done to babies unknowingly by well-meaning parents? Every day. It seems that parents do more research about the type of car seat, stroller, crib, and accessories to buy than they do about the things that matter most. I would love to see this change. I was once that mom, so I understand. It is easy to do, because these are the things that our society values. Research the “things”, hand the responsibility of childbirth and baby rearing to your Obstetrician and Pediatrician. Don't feel bad if you choose drugs, don't feel bad if you choose formula. Don't feel bad if you choose to place your baby in another room upon returning home from the hospital. Don't feel bad if you choose to displace your child's needs in order to maintain yours. Our society places very little importance on what is vital to health and happiness in the little beings that we are given responsibility of. It places more importance on the happiness of adults. It is no coincidence that the doctors who tell you that there is nothing wrong with choosing drugs in childbirth, are paid by the very pharmaceutical companies who supply them. It is no coincidence that the ads that tell you not to feel guilty about choosing not to breastfeed are funded by the mutli-billion dollar formula industry. Our society is not fueled by the importance of mother-baby bonding as it should be. And women fall prey to this – sometimes happily – every single day.
My question is, at what cost?
Showing posts with label breastfeeding. Show all posts
Showing posts with label breastfeeding. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Friday, February 20, 2009
Lactation Consultants
I am newly aware of how lousy many Hospital Lactation Consultants are. A friend of mine had a cesarean 2 weeks ago, and baby ended up in the NICU. He also has a breathing condition, where if he gets too excited, he can't breathe well. He is having some trouble with staying calm with breastfeeding, until the milk is letdown.
Apparently the two hospital LCs she dealt with, didn't even give her the most basic of suggestions, such as giving him say half of a bottle of breastmilk, and *then* latching him on when the edge of hunger is gone. Or, stimulating letdown with the first show of interest in nursing from baby, and then latching him on with milk already flowing. Or, using a SNS until he gets the hang of it.
I'm disappointed, and left wondering how many women are receiving less than adequate support, information, or encouragement in breastfeeding...particularly if there are any even slight issues.
How can this be remedied?
Since most women still choose to birth in the hospital, and I'm now seeing that many hospital LCs are not adequately trained, or very knowledgeable ( or perhaps just complacent? )...what are women to do if they themselves don't know where to start? Is this why a good number of women who start out with intentions of breastfeeding, quit? Not enough adequate support?
I'm going to start having La Leche League information on hand, and I may just add "Breastfeeding Help" to my business card.
Why are women left without good support so often anymore? Whether it be regarding natural childbirth, breastfeeding, attachment parenting, non-vaxxing, or non-circing. Why aren't people helping more?
Apparently the two hospital LCs she dealt with, didn't even give her the most basic of suggestions, such as giving him say half of a bottle of breastmilk, and *then* latching him on when the edge of hunger is gone. Or, stimulating letdown with the first show of interest in nursing from baby, and then latching him on with milk already flowing. Or, using a SNS until he gets the hang of it.
I'm disappointed, and left wondering how many women are receiving less than adequate support, information, or encouragement in breastfeeding...particularly if there are any even slight issues.
How can this be remedied?
Since most women still choose to birth in the hospital, and I'm now seeing that many hospital LCs are not adequately trained, or very knowledgeable ( or perhaps just complacent? )...what are women to do if they themselves don't know where to start? Is this why a good number of women who start out with intentions of breastfeeding, quit? Not enough adequate support?
I'm going to start having La Leche League information on hand, and I may just add "Breastfeeding Help" to my business card.
Why are women left without good support so often anymore? Whether it be regarding natural childbirth, breastfeeding, attachment parenting, non-vaxxing, or non-circing. Why aren't people helping more?
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Dear Doctor,
Dear Doctor,
Why is the exact duration of a woman's pregnancy unknown?
Because I have no way to know when exactly a woman conceived.
Fear not, for I induce labor by 41 weeks if you have not gone into labor on your own by then.
Why is the end of pregnancy often restless, uncomfortable, and emotional?
It is often restless because of the size of the belly, and the hormones in the body.
It is uncomfortable because of the added weight, the weight of the baby, and the size of the belly.
It is emotional due to the many hormones that your body is producing in this time.
Fear not, for I have medications for the restlessness. I will tell you to not lift a finger if pregnancy becomes too uncomfortable, and promise an induction as soon as you're past term. I have medications for the emotions, and as soon as you rid your body of that fetus, your hormones will regulate.
Why is labor gradually more painful as time goes on?
It is increasingly more painful because the body is opening for baby. If your bones are too small, then the pain will be harder, and often pointless. If the baby is not in a good position, it will make it harder and more painful, and the baby may not come out on his own.
Fear not, for I have drugs and anesthesia to numb you from the pain. If the baby is too big or in a bad position, I will cut him out so that you will not suffer. Fear not, for I will not allow you to go too long in labor.
Are there risks with these drugs?
Very little. You need not worry about them, because you will need them to get through the pains of labor. Why should you have to suffer, when I can relieve the pain? Do not worry about the risk to your baby, because you need to be comfortable so that you can enjoy baby after the birth. Yes, there is a risk that the labor will slow, that the baby will become distressed, or that you may not be able to push the baby out effectively...
But fear not, because if the labor slows, I have drugs to make labor come back faster. Fear not, because if the baby becomes distress, I will cut him out so that he does not suffer. Fear not, because if you cannot push him out, I will use forceps or I will cut him out of your body.
Why is the urge to push said to be unbearable?
The urge to push is only felt if you do not have drugs or anesthesia in your body. This is not necessary, as I will tell you when your cervix is fully dilated, and when you will be allowed to push. I will tell you when your baby is ready.
Fear not, for I will not allow you to suffer by pushing for too long. If you cannot push the baby out, I will rescue him with forceps or a cesarean.
What is the purpose of the 'ring of fire' when pushing?
You need not worry about this if you have epidural anesthesia. You need not feel this painful sensation at all, and I do not like my patients to suffer. I will tell you when your baby's head is emerging, and if the baby's head is slow to come, I will simply cut your flesh. If I need to cut it, I will repair it with sutures.
Fear not, for I am skilled with the scissors and repair techniques.
Why do women's nipples darken during pregnancy?
They darken due to hormones. No need to worry, as they will return to normal within the months after birth, if you bottle feed.
Fear not, for they will be pretty again.
Why will my breasts leak milk after giving birth?
This is the body's normal reaction to birth. Don't worry though, as the milk will dry off and you will be rid of the heaviness within a few weeks of birth, if you bottle feed. Yes, breastmilk is best, but no one should expect a mother to feed a baby from the breast if she does not like the idea. The formula companies are always improving their design, to make it more like breastmilk. And don't worry about the chemicals in formula, as they are in such small amounts that they will surely not affect your baby.
Fear not, for you do not have to cause your breasts to be saggy...I will send you home with free samples of the second best nutrition for your baby.
Why is the exact duration of a woman's pregnancy unknown?
Because I have no way to know when exactly a woman conceived.
Fear not, for I induce labor by 41 weeks if you have not gone into labor on your own by then.
Why is the end of pregnancy often restless, uncomfortable, and emotional?
It is often restless because of the size of the belly, and the hormones in the body.
It is uncomfortable because of the added weight, the weight of the baby, and the size of the belly.
It is emotional due to the many hormones that your body is producing in this time.
Fear not, for I have medications for the restlessness. I will tell you to not lift a finger if pregnancy becomes too uncomfortable, and promise an induction as soon as you're past term. I have medications for the emotions, and as soon as you rid your body of that fetus, your hormones will regulate.
Why is labor gradually more painful as time goes on?
It is increasingly more painful because the body is opening for baby. If your bones are too small, then the pain will be harder, and often pointless. If the baby is not in a good position, it will make it harder and more painful, and the baby may not come out on his own.
Fear not, for I have drugs and anesthesia to numb you from the pain. If the baby is too big or in a bad position, I will cut him out so that you will not suffer. Fear not, for I will not allow you to go too long in labor.
Are there risks with these drugs?
Very little. You need not worry about them, because you will need them to get through the pains of labor. Why should you have to suffer, when I can relieve the pain? Do not worry about the risk to your baby, because you need to be comfortable so that you can enjoy baby after the birth. Yes, there is a risk that the labor will slow, that the baby will become distressed, or that you may not be able to push the baby out effectively...
But fear not, because if the labor slows, I have drugs to make labor come back faster. Fear not, because if the baby becomes distress, I will cut him out so that he does not suffer. Fear not, because if you cannot push him out, I will use forceps or I will cut him out of your body.
Why is the urge to push said to be unbearable?
The urge to push is only felt if you do not have drugs or anesthesia in your body. This is not necessary, as I will tell you when your cervix is fully dilated, and when you will be allowed to push. I will tell you when your baby is ready.
Fear not, for I will not allow you to suffer by pushing for too long. If you cannot push the baby out, I will rescue him with forceps or a cesarean.
What is the purpose of the 'ring of fire' when pushing?
You need not worry about this if you have epidural anesthesia. You need not feel this painful sensation at all, and I do not like my patients to suffer. I will tell you when your baby's head is emerging, and if the baby's head is slow to come, I will simply cut your flesh. If I need to cut it, I will repair it with sutures.
Fear not, for I am skilled with the scissors and repair techniques.
Why do women's nipples darken during pregnancy?
They darken due to hormones. No need to worry, as they will return to normal within the months after birth, if you bottle feed.
Fear not, for they will be pretty again.
Why will my breasts leak milk after giving birth?
This is the body's normal reaction to birth. Don't worry though, as the milk will dry off and you will be rid of the heaviness within a few weeks of birth, if you bottle feed. Yes, breastmilk is best, but no one should expect a mother to feed a baby from the breast if she does not like the idea. The formula companies are always improving their design, to make it more like breastmilk. And don't worry about the chemicals in formula, as they are in such small amounts that they will surely not affect your baby.
Fear not, for you do not have to cause your breasts to be saggy...I will send you home with free samples of the second best nutrition for your baby.
Dear God,
Dear God,
Why is the exact duration of a woman's pregnancy unknown to her?
Because each baby develops at a different pace in the womb, and is ready to be born only in their own time.
Fear not, and have patience, for I have a perfect Birth Day for every baby.
Why did You make it so that the end of pregnancy is often restless, uncomfortable, and emotional?
I made it restless so that your body will be ready for the night feedings with your baby.
I made it uncomfortable so that you will be ready to face the sensations of birth, that will bring forth your baby.
I made it emotional so that you will be prepared for the many emotions that come in the moment you see the fruit of your womb for the first time, and in the months of adjustment to motherhood after.
Fear not, for I created you to have strength and endurance.
Why did You make labor to be increasingly strong and painful?
So that you may learn to work through the birth pangs in each stage, and take them one at a time, rejoicing in the increasing strength and knowing that your baby is near. I made it so that the contractions grow in strength and intensity so that each one may bring the baby lower, and direct baby to be in the best position. I made labor sensations so that you may respond to your body with each need, and in knowing when baby is ready for you to begin pushing.
Fear not, for I created you to be strong and able.
Why did You make the urge to push so unbearable?
So that you would begin to push, only at the perfect time. If you begin to push before this unbearable urge, you will likely push much longer than you need to. I created this urge so that you would know, without doubt, when the baby is ready to emerge from the womb.
Fear not, for I created it this way so that you would not exhaust your body in pushing before your body and your baby are ready.
Why did You create the 'ring of fire' when pushing?
So that you would feel clearly when the baby's head is ready to emerge, and push slowly, so as to not tear your flesh.
Fear not, for I created your skin to stretch slowly, allowing for baby's head. I created your tissue to tear along only the weakest spots, if a tear is necessary. These tears will heal well on their own.
Why did You create labor and birth to be so hard for most women?
Labor and birth will not be painful for every woman, but every woman will have hard work in labor. This is a part of the curse of Adam and Eve, a part of your entry into motherhood. Just as the men are called upon to work hard to provide for their family, women are called upon to work hard to bring forth the life of their womb. Hard work in labor and birth will prepare you for the task and honor of being a mother. With motherhood comes hard work. Physically, mentally, emotionally hard work. Labor and birth open the door for the task you will be faced with.
Fear not, for I also created birth to have a reward. I created your body to release the highest amount of endorphins that will ever be known to your body, if you leave labor and birth to My design. Hindering the process will not bring this release though, so know that the hard work of labor serves a purpose, and is not without reward.
Why do women's nipples darken during pregnancy?
So that the newborn at birth, whose eyesight is yet blurry, may find the breast and be well nourished.
Fear not, for I created it so that baby may always find his way to his mother's breast, and find comfort and health.
Why do my breasts leak milk after giving birth?
So that you may provide your baby with the perfect nutrition. Colostrum so thick with fat and protein, perfect for the newly birthed baby. Breastmilk that comes in at the perfect time, in two parts. First, thinner to quench the baby's thirst. Second, thick hindmilk to fill baby's belly. Each feeding is filled with different tastes, and different textures. This prepares baby for toddler hood, when he will begin to taste the first solid foods of his life. Through nursing at the breast, a baby develops a strong, healthy jaw, and is filled with antibodies, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. A baby also receives the warmth of his mother's breast, the smell of her skin, and the sound of her heart.
Fear not, for I created breastmilk to be the most perfect food for your baby.
Why is the exact duration of a woman's pregnancy unknown to her?
Because each baby develops at a different pace in the womb, and is ready to be born only in their own time.
Fear not, and have patience, for I have a perfect Birth Day for every baby.
Why did You make it so that the end of pregnancy is often restless, uncomfortable, and emotional?
I made it restless so that your body will be ready for the night feedings with your baby.
I made it uncomfortable so that you will be ready to face the sensations of birth, that will bring forth your baby.
I made it emotional so that you will be prepared for the many emotions that come in the moment you see the fruit of your womb for the first time, and in the months of adjustment to motherhood after.
Fear not, for I created you to have strength and endurance.
Why did You make labor to be increasingly strong and painful?
So that you may learn to work through the birth pangs in each stage, and take them one at a time, rejoicing in the increasing strength and knowing that your baby is near. I made it so that the contractions grow in strength and intensity so that each one may bring the baby lower, and direct baby to be in the best position. I made labor sensations so that you may respond to your body with each need, and in knowing when baby is ready for you to begin pushing.
Fear not, for I created you to be strong and able.
Why did You make the urge to push so unbearable?
So that you would begin to push, only at the perfect time. If you begin to push before this unbearable urge, you will likely push much longer than you need to. I created this urge so that you would know, without doubt, when the baby is ready to emerge from the womb.
Fear not, for I created it this way so that you would not exhaust your body in pushing before your body and your baby are ready.
Why did You create the 'ring of fire' when pushing?
So that you would feel clearly when the baby's head is ready to emerge, and push slowly, so as to not tear your flesh.
Fear not, for I created your skin to stretch slowly, allowing for baby's head. I created your tissue to tear along only the weakest spots, if a tear is necessary. These tears will heal well on their own.
Why did You create labor and birth to be so hard for most women?
Labor and birth will not be painful for every woman, but every woman will have hard work in labor. This is a part of the curse of Adam and Eve, a part of your entry into motherhood. Just as the men are called upon to work hard to provide for their family, women are called upon to work hard to bring forth the life of their womb. Hard work in labor and birth will prepare you for the task and honor of being a mother. With motherhood comes hard work. Physically, mentally, emotionally hard work. Labor and birth open the door for the task you will be faced with.
Fear not, for I also created birth to have a reward. I created your body to release the highest amount of endorphins that will ever be known to your body, if you leave labor and birth to My design. Hindering the process will not bring this release though, so know that the hard work of labor serves a purpose, and is not without reward.
Why do women's nipples darken during pregnancy?
So that the newborn at birth, whose eyesight is yet blurry, may find the breast and be well nourished.
Fear not, for I created it so that baby may always find his way to his mother's breast, and find comfort and health.
Why do my breasts leak milk after giving birth?
So that you may provide your baby with the perfect nutrition. Colostrum so thick with fat and protein, perfect for the newly birthed baby. Breastmilk that comes in at the perfect time, in two parts. First, thinner to quench the baby's thirst. Second, thick hindmilk to fill baby's belly. Each feeding is filled with different tastes, and different textures. This prepares baby for toddler hood, when he will begin to taste the first solid foods of his life. Through nursing at the breast, a baby develops a strong, healthy jaw, and is filled with antibodies, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. A baby also receives the warmth of his mother's breast, the smell of her skin, and the sound of her heart.
Fear not, for I created breastmilk to be the most perfect food for your baby.
Monday, October 13, 2008
To echo a running theme on Grey's Anatomy:
Seriously? Seriously! Seriously?!?!
I have been totally and completely irritated with the lack of breastfeeding advocacy in the US. Especially after visiting the Philippines, and seeing pro-breastfeeding stuff EVERYWHERE. And no, that's not being overdramatic. Posters explaining the benefits were everywhere you looked.
Here? Here we're too damn PC to say "HEY! LADY! You're supposed to be giving your baby the best! There are r-e-a-s-o-n-s that there are breastfeeding slogans like 'Breast is Best', you know! There are reasons that formula companies put that on the can and in every commercial!!!" Nooo, we can't say that. Because that might undermind the decision of a woman who believes that her breasts are sexual objects only, or the woman who thinks that breastfeeding is gross, or the woman who thinks it's just too hard.
In the grocery store the other day, a woman had a Breast Cancer Awareness tote bag, and yet was buying a huge can of formula for her roughly week-old daughter sitting in her carrier, in the very back of the grocery cart.
:crickets chirping:
In the words of Homer Simpson: "DOH!". Yes, let's make sure that everyone knows about Breast Cancer...but did YOU know that breastfeeding actually reduces your risk of said cancer? Again: "DOH!"
In the past 2 days, I have seen commercials on feeding your BABY ( not toddler, not child...BABY ) the essential fatty acids such as the Omegas, and about making sure that your baby gets enough DHA in his or her diet. They mention fish sources, foods, even FORMULAS with ADDED nutrients ( because it's manufactured, processed, and preserved REMEMBER? )....but not ONCE did the damn thing mention, oh yeah, BREASTFEEDING!!!!!
Have we really gotten that PC as a society that the babies don't matter? "It's her choice, I can't make her feel bad or change her mind!". Really? What if the people who were against slavery decided that it wasn't any of their business what went on in other households? What if the civil rights activists decided that it wasn't their problem if a black person had the very same right to be in schools and buses and shops and theaters, as white people?
Now you've gone too far, Birthkeeper!
Have I? Really? Is it so far fetched for someone to worry about the babies who have the misfortune of being born to mothers who obviously don't care enough about their well being to simply breastfeed? I'm not asking for the woman to sign her breasts up for the next 3 years. But one year?!?!? Six months?!?! I advocate for longer than that, as does many health organizations, but I'd be happy if babies got at least 6 months to a year.
But that's not going to happen unless women start their selfless portion of motherhood during pregnancy.
I have been totally and completely irritated with the lack of breastfeeding advocacy in the US. Especially after visiting the Philippines, and seeing pro-breastfeeding stuff EVERYWHERE. And no, that's not being overdramatic. Posters explaining the benefits were everywhere you looked.
Here? Here we're too damn PC to say "HEY! LADY! You're supposed to be giving your baby the best! There are r-e-a-s-o-n-s that there are breastfeeding slogans like 'Breast is Best', you know! There are reasons that formula companies put that on the can and in every commercial!!!" Nooo, we can't say that. Because that might undermind the decision of a woman who believes that her breasts are sexual objects only, or the woman who thinks that breastfeeding is gross, or the woman who thinks it's just too hard.
In the grocery store the other day, a woman had a Breast Cancer Awareness tote bag, and yet was buying a huge can of formula for her roughly week-old daughter sitting in her carrier, in the very back of the grocery cart.
:crickets chirping:
In the words of Homer Simpson: "DOH!". Yes, let's make sure that everyone knows about Breast Cancer...but did YOU know that breastfeeding actually reduces your risk of said cancer? Again: "DOH!"
In the past 2 days, I have seen commercials on feeding your BABY ( not toddler, not child...BABY ) the essential fatty acids such as the Omegas, and about making sure that your baby gets enough DHA in his or her diet. They mention fish sources, foods, even FORMULAS with ADDED nutrients ( because it's manufactured, processed, and preserved REMEMBER? )....but not ONCE did the damn thing mention, oh yeah, BREASTFEEDING!!!!!
Have we really gotten that PC as a society that the babies don't matter? "It's her choice, I can't make her feel bad or change her mind!". Really? What if the people who were against slavery decided that it wasn't any of their business what went on in other households? What if the civil rights activists decided that it wasn't their problem if a black person had the very same right to be in schools and buses and shops and theaters, as white people?
Now you've gone too far, Birthkeeper!
Have I? Really? Is it so far fetched for someone to worry about the babies who have the misfortune of being born to mothers who obviously don't care enough about their well being to simply breastfeed? I'm not asking for the woman to sign her breasts up for the next 3 years. But one year?!?!? Six months?!?! I advocate for longer than that, as does many health organizations, but I'd be happy if babies got at least 6 months to a year.
But that's not going to happen unless women start their selfless portion of motherhood during pregnancy.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Fourth Baby Dies
http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/09/18/china.tainted.formula/index.html?eref=rss_world
BEIJING, China (CNN) -- Chinese officials in the northwestern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region reported the death of a fourth baby Thursday in the country's expanding contaminated infant formula case. The tainted milk powder has already sickened more than 6,200 babies.
Disclaimer: This is a RANT. If you will be offended by a rant over women bottle feeding, then don't read this.
There are so many things that I'm an advocate for anymore. Home birthing, Unassisted Birthing, Breastfeeding, Not Vaccinating, Not Circumcising. There are *reasons* for me being so opinionated about them.
Sure sure, all of the bottle feeding women in America are going to say that this happened in China and could *never* happen here, right? Wrong. Because formula is MANUFACTURED and has to go through a long process of purification and preservation, WHY would it be exempt from this type of problem?
This is why women need to stop being so lazy, selfish, or viewing breasts as sexual objects only. Babies deserve to be breastfed. It is their right in life, from the womb. Yes yes, I know I know....there are women out there who truly *cannot* breastfeed. Really ladies, this is less than 2% of the population. Somehow ( insert sarcasm ) I manage to come across the entire 2% every year. It's shocking just how many women "cannot" breastfeed. :-/ Seriously?
And I've heard everything from "I want my breasts to be for my husband only", to "I am a Christian woman, and breastfeeding is indecent", to "My husband won't allow me to because it's gross", to "This is MY body, and it's too much work to breastfeed". Yeah, great reasons. If your husband doesn't want you breastfeeding because it's deemed "gross" or "inappropriate" by him...then he's got some issues to work through on his own. You don't deprive your baby of his/her essential right from birth, simply because your husband/partner has a distorted view of breastfeeding. And the selfish reasons? Why have children if that's how you're going to view breastfeeding? Motherhood is supposed to be selfless. Nothing less than that. Is it hard? Absolutely!
And there are reasons why breastfeeding comes harder to some women than others. Epidurals in birth can absolutely positively inhibit a good breastfeeding relationship. Drugs during childbirth can absolutely inhibit a good breastfeeding relationship. You're not just drugging yourself, you're drugging baby too. Cesareans can *ABSOLUTELY* inhibit a good breastfeeding relationship, because of the amount of narcotics given to mom, as well as the hour + baby spends in the nursery while mom is in recovery. It's very rare that a cesarean mom is able to breastfeed within the first hour of the baby's life, losing out on so much vital skin-to-skin contact. Women also think it's okay to give the baby a bottle to be able to have a family member feed so mom can sleep. This can create nipple confusion, as well as decrease your milk supply. Babies should be ( and deserve to be ) exclusively breastfed for at LEAST the first 6-8 months, and then continued to be breastfed even after you start solids. Many world organizations recommend babies to be breastfed until at least age 2. Babies are LITERALLY BORN TO BREASTFEED. This isn't an opinion, this is a fact. I absolutely LOVE the saying "My baby is a bottle baby. Some just don't take to it." :sigh: Poor babies. :(
Here are some great facts about breastfeeding vs. formula feeding:
* Recent studies show that babies who are exclusively breastfed for 6 months are less likely to develop ear infections, diarrhea, and respiratory illnesses. They may also be less likely to develop childhood obesity.
* Breastfeeding provides the baby with vital immunities against illness and childhood diseases.
* Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
* Breastfeeding is literally the perfect food for the baby's tummy. The tummy is able to break down breastmilk and digest without problems.
* Breastfeeding provides foremilk and hindmilk. Two consistencies to aid in hydration and nutrition. Formula only has one consistency.
* Breastfeeding mothers have increased self-esteem.
* Breastfeeding saves the family budget hundreds of dollars.
* Breastfeeding saves on health care costs.
* SIDS is seen less with breastfed babies.
Facts about Formula:
* Formula has no antibodies to pass to the baby
* Formula often produces gas and constipation in the baby
* Formula does NOT match the complexity of breastmilk. With formula, the baby will have the same exact taste at every single feeding. Breastfed babies have the taste of the food that mom eats, changing with every single feeding.
* Formula is harder for the baby's tummy to break down, since it is not human milk.
* Bottles have to be sterilized in between feedings. Breasts are always ready
* Formula is EXPENSIVE. Breastmilk is free.
* Bottle feeding does not exercise and condition the baby's jaw, as breastfeeding does.
* Formula fed babies are often overfed because the bottle continues to flow, and babies at a young age to not yet have the ability to refuse food when full.
* Obesity is more common amongst formula fed babies
Okay, rant over. I'm so sad for the 4 families in China who lost their babies over contaminated formula. I pray that they will find peace.
I also pray that maybe this will be a wake up call for formula feeding parents.
BEIJING, China (CNN) -- Chinese officials in the northwestern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region reported the death of a fourth baby Thursday in the country's expanding contaminated infant formula case. The tainted milk powder has already sickened more than 6,200 babies.
Disclaimer: This is a RANT. If you will be offended by a rant over women bottle feeding, then don't read this.
There are so many things that I'm an advocate for anymore. Home birthing, Unassisted Birthing, Breastfeeding, Not Vaccinating, Not Circumcising. There are *reasons* for me being so opinionated about them.
Sure sure, all of the bottle feeding women in America are going to say that this happened in China and could *never* happen here, right? Wrong. Because formula is MANUFACTURED and has to go through a long process of purification and preservation, WHY would it be exempt from this type of problem?
This is why women need to stop being so lazy, selfish, or viewing breasts as sexual objects only. Babies deserve to be breastfed. It is their right in life, from the womb. Yes yes, I know I know....there are women out there who truly *cannot* breastfeed. Really ladies, this is less than 2% of the population. Somehow ( insert sarcasm ) I manage to come across the entire 2% every year. It's shocking just how many women "cannot" breastfeed. :-/ Seriously?
And I've heard everything from "I want my breasts to be for my husband only", to "I am a Christian woman, and breastfeeding is indecent", to "My husband won't allow me to because it's gross", to "This is MY body, and it's too much work to breastfeed". Yeah, great reasons. If your husband doesn't want you breastfeeding because it's deemed "gross" or "inappropriate" by him...then he's got some issues to work through on his own. You don't deprive your baby of his/her essential right from birth, simply because your husband/partner has a distorted view of breastfeeding. And the selfish reasons? Why have children if that's how you're going to view breastfeeding? Motherhood is supposed to be selfless. Nothing less than that. Is it hard? Absolutely!
And there are reasons why breastfeeding comes harder to some women than others. Epidurals in birth can absolutely positively inhibit a good breastfeeding relationship. Drugs during childbirth can absolutely inhibit a good breastfeeding relationship. You're not just drugging yourself, you're drugging baby too. Cesareans can *ABSOLUTELY* inhibit a good breastfeeding relationship, because of the amount of narcotics given to mom, as well as the hour + baby spends in the nursery while mom is in recovery. It's very rare that a cesarean mom is able to breastfeed within the first hour of the baby's life, losing out on so much vital skin-to-skin contact. Women also think it's okay to give the baby a bottle to be able to have a family member feed so mom can sleep. This can create nipple confusion, as well as decrease your milk supply. Babies should be ( and deserve to be ) exclusively breastfed for at LEAST the first 6-8 months, and then continued to be breastfed even after you start solids. Many world organizations recommend babies to be breastfed until at least age 2. Babies are LITERALLY BORN TO BREASTFEED. This isn't an opinion, this is a fact. I absolutely LOVE the saying "My baby is a bottle baby. Some just don't take to it." :sigh: Poor babies. :(
Here are some great facts about breastfeeding vs. formula feeding:
* Recent studies show that babies who are exclusively breastfed for 6 months are less likely to develop ear infections, diarrhea, and respiratory illnesses. They may also be less likely to develop childhood obesity.
* Breastfeeding provides the baby with vital immunities against illness and childhood diseases.
* Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
* Breastfeeding is literally the perfect food for the baby's tummy. The tummy is able to break down breastmilk and digest without problems.
* Breastfeeding provides foremilk and hindmilk. Two consistencies to aid in hydration and nutrition. Formula only has one consistency.
* Breastfeeding mothers have increased self-esteem.
* Breastfeeding saves the family budget hundreds of dollars.
* Breastfeeding saves on health care costs.
* SIDS is seen less with breastfed babies.
Facts about Formula:
* Formula has no antibodies to pass to the baby
* Formula often produces gas and constipation in the baby
* Formula does NOT match the complexity of breastmilk. With formula, the baby will have the same exact taste at every single feeding. Breastfed babies have the taste of the food that mom eats, changing with every single feeding.
* Formula is harder for the baby's tummy to break down, since it is not human milk.
* Bottles have to be sterilized in between feedings. Breasts are always ready
* Formula is EXPENSIVE. Breastmilk is free.
* Bottle feeding does not exercise and condition the baby's jaw, as breastfeeding does.
* Formula fed babies are often overfed because the bottle continues to flow, and babies at a young age to not yet have the ability to refuse food when full.
* Obesity is more common amongst formula fed babies
Okay, rant over. I'm so sad for the 4 families in China who lost their babies over contaminated formula. I pray that they will find peace.
I also pray that maybe this will be a wake up call for formula feeding parents.
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