For some reason,in medical school,one is taught the very basics about breatfeeding,and even less about formula feeding . I have always wondered why there is a bit of a hush hush about marketing Formula milk,and of course everyone is aware of the large warning sign on all tins of formula about it not being the best choice for your baby.
I never fully understood all theethical implications about the marketing of formula milk,until I came across the International code of Marketing which was formulated by the WHO. Suddenly everything made sense and I have no idea how universities could send doctors out to practice and give advice to pregnant women and mothers without knowing this?!
It is a very long act but I tried to summarise the main points as shortly as needed:
-Any health care worker or their facility is not allowed to advertise breast milk substitutes
-Mothers should not be given samples of breastmilk substitutes. If a mother requires formula milk for a medical reason,they need supplies for 12 months
-No calendars,pictures or other items that shw the brand name of formula,nor bottles are allowed in a clinic. Formula should be kept out of sight.
-Infant feeding company personnel should not show mothers how to use formula and health care workers may not show the general population.If a mother needs formula for a medical reason,she should be shown and councelled in private.
-No gifts to be accepted from manufacturers of breastmilk substitutes.
-Health care workers should avoid conflict of interest when considering sponsorships or scholarships from such companies.
Remember that if you perhaps have a small business and sell teats,bottles or any form of baby food-you have to know this act,as I see it being disregarded daily! I am by no means judging breast milk substitutes,but data unfortunately has proven again it is not the ideal.Many mothers argue that ‘fed is best’…I am in total disagreeance to this since it implies that unfed is second best. If breastfeeding doesn’t work out-at least know the implications and health care workers are not allowed to sell or promote formula without adequate warning,and somehow that just doesn’t get done.
To read more about the entire act,find it here.
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article sponsered by Northern Michigan certified lactation consulting and Mother Hubbards Country Cupboard
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