I've conducted research with teen mothers and found their comments on our
prenatal nutrition program (Health for Two) interesting.  Low-income
pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers can receive milk coupons as part of
the program.  The teen mothers pointed out they need formula not milk at
least initially.  It seems like most teen mothers choose (or are forced to
choose) formula feeding over breast feeding because they have to return to
school or work.  Milk coupons would be more valuable once the babies are off
formula and drinking milk.

It seems discriminatory to offer "nutrition" to breastfeeding mothers but
not formula feeding mothers.  I'm not a medical expert but from what I
understand women will continue to lactate whether or not they drink milk
(its actually protein they require).  Plus, there is little cost associated
with breastfeeding.  Whereas women who must buy formula have quite a cost
burden ($40-$80) month, so these infants are at higher risk of malnutrition
if the mother has low income.

What is the reasoning behind these programs?  I understand that breast
feeding is widely consider to be the better option (I believe so too) but
some women do not have a choice.  If we are going to promote infant health
than we need to promote the health of all infants!  Why can't formula
companies be approached to provide coupons for income mothers?

Just some thoughts.

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Karen Mykietka, B.Ed, M.Sc.(c)
Centre for Health Promotion Studies, U of A
e-mail: [log in to unmask]
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