Letters to the Editor
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Time for a culture change
We need to accelerate societal acceptance of breastfeeding as the norm. We've made good progress in educating mothers (and fathers, grandparents, health-care professionals, intolerant people on airplanes...) about the benefits of breastfeeding. Now let's take it a step further. Moms, be confident that you CAN continue breastfeed after returning to work. Connect with other breastfeeding moms for encouragement and support. ASK FOR WHAT YOU NEED (time, space, support) from your employer. Employers, look online for a myriad of resources available to help you implement a lactation program. Let's view this as a public health imperative. Someday, breastfeeding will become part of the fabric of our society. When moms of infants (up to 1 year - or even older) return to work, it will be simply UNDERSTOOD that they need to continue providing HUMAN MILK for their offspring. Any substitute is inferior, and our babies deserve the best we can give them.