subject: Is Breast Really Best? [print this page] Is Breast Really Best?
While there are many benefits to breast feeding your infant it is not always necessarily the best option.
In a bid to increase breast feeding rates in Australia experts have suggested that infant formula be available through prescription only. That includes going to the doctors getting a prescription then going to the local pharmacist and getting the formula made up.
Experts also go as far as saying that formula manufactures should also be banned from marketing their products to the public. They claim that new parents believe that if they try to breast feed and if they can't do it that formula is just as good and see it as a easy alternative.
However in recent weeks this recommendation has caused public uproar. It seems that many new parents would find it inconvenient and time consuming to have to go to the doctors just to feed their baby. Not to mention the paranoia and feeling of guilt that most new mothers already feel if they are unable to breast feed their newborn baby making formula prescription only would add to this.
It seems that a majority of the public including new mothers believe that it should be the parent's decision and it is not realistic to have to go to the doctors just to be able to provide food for their child. They believe that prescription formula would have bad implications for those who cannot breast feed.
Not only will it be time consuming, to go to the doctors to get the formula but it will also come at an added expense. Adding up the money for fuel to get to the doctors and the pharmacist, plus the doctors fee then add on the money that may be lost if time off of work is needed, there is already the cost of nearly 3 tins of infant formula in just one trip to the supermarket. This added expense could have huge implications for families already struggling to make ends meet and poverty among lower class citizens would rise.
There are many reasons why breast feeding is best-bonding time, health benefits both for baby and mom including reducing the risk of SIDS. If you cannot breast feed your baby due to many reasons-single dad, no milk, inverted nipples, work etc then why should it become an inconvenience to get formula and be made feel like you have failed your baby as you were unable to breast feed.
So while breast may be best in the eyes of experts it isn't necessary the best option for all parents and their babies
Please click here for more information on nurseing and breast feeding
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