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Can we discuss breastfeeding as a feminist, social, and class issue? My personal experience is US-centric, and of course I'm interested in hearing stories from everywhere.
I've been breastfeeding my daughter for eight months, and I work outside the home. Despite working in the notoriously non-family friendly retail industry, my job has been wonderfully accomodating about my taking pumping breaks, giving me a private place to take them, and milk storage. Not so much on the schedule end, but we're making it work. Unfortunately many new mothers don't have decent employers, or aren't aware of the rights that protect them, or don't feel as if they are in a safe position to stand up for them.
Of course, a longer maternity leave and on-site childcare would have been optimal for me, but don't always lead to higher breastfeeding rates without a culture change. For instance, France, known for being progressive in those areas and for healthcare in general, has abyssmal breastfeeding rates.
Formula has its place, but it has a very problematic history and has now become the norm even though breastmilk is optimal but not always possible medically or the choice someone wishes to make.
Now, WIC and welfare in the U.S. will provide formula for free, but the $400-$800 breastpumps required for full time heavy use aren't covered by insurance.
Everything from the lack of healthcare support, cultural norms, non-supportive work/childcare situations, the lack of a supportive family, and the taboo on breastfeeding in public have made it difficult or impossible for many people to make this choice.
Can I hear your thoughts, experiences, stories?
I've been breastfeeding my daughter for eight months, and I work outside the home. Despite working in the notoriously non-family friendly retail industry, my job has been wonderfully accomodating about my taking pumping breaks, giving me a private place to take them, and milk storage. Not so much on the schedule end, but we're making it work. Unfortunately many new mothers don't have decent employers, or aren't aware of the rights that protect them, or don't feel as if they are in a safe position to stand up for them.
Of course, a longer maternity leave and on-site childcare would have been optimal for me, but don't always lead to higher breastfeeding rates without a culture change. For instance, France, known for being progressive in those areas and for healthcare in general, has abyssmal breastfeeding rates.
Formula has its place, but it has a very problematic history and has now become the norm even though breastmilk is optimal but not always possible medically or the choice someone wishes to make.
Now, WIC and welfare in the U.S. will provide formula for free, but the $400-$800 breastpumps required for full time heavy use aren't covered by insurance.
Everything from the lack of healthcare support, cultural norms, non-supportive work/childcare situations, the lack of a supportive family, and the taboo on breastfeeding in public have made it difficult or impossible for many people to make this choice.
Can I hear your thoughts, experiences, stories?