Dangerous liaisons — two examples why
free supplies and gift packs must be eliminated
One mother wrote:
"In November 2002, a close friend was prevented from breastfeeding her newborn for three days while he was monitored for hypoglycemia. She was told that their hospital routine was too important to disrupt for breastfeeding."
Another mother wrote:
"During a recent hospital stay for an ectopic pregnancy I was placed on the ‘Maternity Ward’ where I was not allowed to have my nine month old infant to breast feed. I understand she was not a newborn and in spite of requesting a private room to alleviate the contamination of germs etc. my request was denied.
"During a follow-up visit to my family doctor I was given a free kit from Nestlé that contained formula among other things. I declined the gift as I said I did not need it. In both places they state that they are breastfeeding friendly but also clearly they are formula friendly as well!
"I know that both places have information on breastfeeeding support because I gave them posters etc. from La Leche League but [they] did not display them. When I inquired, they both said they only give out the information to women who may be experiencing difficulties and did not promote it to women who appeared to have no problems breastfeeding."
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