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" The following is a kudos letter for
a segment on PBS's show (ironically)
called Spilled
Milk, a show on different parenting issues. They had a really
great segment on breastfeeding, which included showing babies at
the breast, latching on, BFIP, pumping, getting support, how some
women over came initial problems such as having preemies, thrush,
milk supply problems, etc.
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Three cheers for the recent segment on breastfeeding featured on "Spilled Milk"!
It is odd that a society seemingly consumed with financial prosperity and safety
is largely unwilling to make the investment in breastfeeding, despite its proven
benefits to babies' health and cognitive development. As you noted, the American
Academy of Pediatrics has strongly recommended that women breastfeed their children
for at least 12 months. This recommendation comes as a result of many studies that
have demonstrated that breastfed children have lower risks of diarrhea, lower
respiratory infections, ear infections, allergies, eczema, bacterial meningitis, and
many other illnesses, as well as higher IQs. The list of benefits to both mother
and child is extensive.
One of the goals of the United States' "Healthy People 2000" program is increasing to
50% the number of women who breastfeed their children until at least 5 to 6 months of
age. Sadly, though, less than 60% of mothers are breastfeeding at the time of hospital
discharge, and only about 20% are still breastfeeding their babies at 6 months.
Because the media have an enormous impact on what we as a culture deem "socially acceptable,"
your televesion show has tremendous potential for positive influence on the way Americans
perceive breastfeeding.
Breastmilk is one of the best starts in life anyone can ever hope to provide
a child, and nursing is one of the most natural acts in the world. Thank
you for helping to spread this message so eloquently.
Sincerely,
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