Recently the NY Times had an article mentioning a proposal that formula packages contain a warning label similar to that on cigarettes. Even if that became a reality I think it is a far cry from society being “up in arms” about a woman choosing bottlefeeding. I think that article may be what Braverman was referring to.

BF really needs to be a personal decision BASED ON EDUCATION!

At least for me, shopping for the first baby was overwhelming. It became hard to distinguish need from want, necessary from unnecessary. The marketing is just overwhelming.

You’re right that 15 months is “nothing to write home about,” but it’s still a lot better than 12 months. I just heard about a mother with premie twins, born at 32 weeks, who has an 11-month-old and a few more at home. Most American breastfeeding women beginning solids at 6 months experience 6-12 months of amenorrhea (lack of periods), but much longer is not at all uncommon, even today. Have you read, “Breastfeeding and Child Spacing,” by Sheila Kippley?

I’ve been drafting a post explaining how breastfeeding infertility works. This is information that young couples do not usually get, and their doctors don’t really know either. I hope to get to it soon.

Gone are the times of the Gemara when women nursed for two years and did not become pregnant during those two years, thus ensuring at least 2 years and nine months between children.

Many dedicated nursers do not experience a break of this kind, even without resorting to supplements and pacifiers.

Are you going to write about marketing of formula, or other baby products as well. Because formula marketing is in a class by itself. . .

Marketing for babies is huge and information is crucial. I’ve been thinking about writing a post on such and I’m glad you brought the subject up.

Thanks SL for stopping by! I also never bought baby food after my first. I didn’t even make it, unless you count mashing a banana for a week or two. After that it was finger food all the way. . . Jarred baby food, like formula, is marketed to babies much older–and younger — than those that actually need their solid food mashed, or need it at all. I’m actually not glad that those companies exist. Marketing of early solids interferes with breastfeeding. Formula doesn’t need to be advertised or marketed, but it is a necessity for babies for 6-12 months who are not breastfeeding. You can’t say that about jarred baby foods.

Actually, I believe the bf rates in Israel are much higher than in the US, and according to the most recent study, they have risen sharply recently probably because of the Remedia scandal (babies died from vitamin-deficient formula). I think much of it depends on where you live.

There is nothing wrong with EDUCATION. And, I have yet to meet the lactation police, just those who educate others. Those of us who grew up with the bottle (I’m including myself here) often lack information and support and I think we should all be grateful it is there.

Are you really a better parent if you make your own baby food?

As for this comment. . . here too, the babyfood industry has convinced many mothers that they NEED pre-jarred food (which my kid wouldn’t touch). EDUCATION doesn’t hurt at all and I doubt anyone thinks so and so is a better mother because she makes her own baby food. . . but, it is good to know that you can make perfectly healthy food for much, much less EXPENSE (an Orthonomic note!) and you do not need Gerber or Beechnut.

So, in sum, I’m happy that Gerber and Beechnut exist. But, I’m happy that my pediatrian has let me know that I can make all sorts of great foods for my babies and that I don’t need these companies. Information is power, and I’d rather not break the bank over a lack of information. But, I’m happy that those who enjoy the convience of jarred baby food, have access to it.