State considers ban on formula freebies - trying to encourage bf for new moms

jcc64 wrote: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20060222/hl_nm/...assachusetts_dc

Agree or disagree? Please let's not turn this into a bf vs formula debate. This is a question of whether it's prudent, ethical, or whatever for hospitals to facilitate marketing for the formula companies.

holley79 replied: I think it's the mother's choice. I don't think there should be a ban on it at all. I was given free samples at the hospital, which was a good thing. I had to go into the hospital when she was only 3 days old. It doesn't hurt to have it on hand. I donated pretyt much all of it to Department Of Children and Family since I didn't need it. I think the mother should say whether she wants the free samples or not; not the state. JMHO

mysweetpeasWil&Wes replied: Hmmmm, interesting. Yes, I agree that it would be "better" if hospitals didn't hand out free samples of formula, but they say in the article "mothers should be able to think for themselves" right? Well then I'm sorta partial to the idea that most of us, at least those who knew before going into the hospital that we were going to BF, would careless whether formula samples were handed to us or not. I didn't. I just threw them out. Yeah, I guess the samples are a waste of money and can lead some new-mothers to switch to formula, but again, it's a choice whether or not to take it really. So I guess let the marketing gurus of formula waste their own money. It's nothing different than the zillions of other samples you get for diaper rash creams and baby lotions. You choose what feels best for you and the baby. Take it or leave it IMO.

kayla's mama replied: This is interesting.....I think it's the mothers choice if she decides to take them or not. I was given free samples even though I was planning on bf, thank goodness I had them, I could not bf. It is no different than the free diapers and ointment cream, if you want it take it if not leave it. JMHO

PrairieMom replied: I only BF The boy for 5 months, and did need to suppliment with formula once or twice, (DH had a tragic incident with the bottle warmer) so it was nice to have it for back up. I don't think that getting a sample in the hospital swayed me at all. I had acutally bought my own back up formula before hand becuase I didn't know I would be getting a free sample. I think that this topic is so heavily debated that a new mother already knows what she is going to do before the baby is born. I will say however, that I used similac because that is what I was given in the hospital, so I guess as far as brands of formula, I was swayed.

MyBrownEyedBoy replied: I agree with the premise, there are a lot of moms who haven't made up their minds when they enter the hospital, believe it or not. And for those who haven't made a decision, I suppose the availability might sway them. As for myself, if I didn't want them, I'd leave them behind.

kit_kats_mom replied: Did you know that I got a free case of formula (the premixed kind in little bottles) for giving birth on labor day? I donated it all to charity.

I didn't read the article yet, the chimps are restless. But just off the top of my head...

I'm all for getting rid of the freebies. If the company really wants to help &give the stuff away, then donate to teen pregnancy centers or places that support new moms where there are Lactation Consultants or even just other moms, on hand to help the mothers work through any issues.

I think that giving it away for free to every mom who walks through the doors is just about the $$ & catching new moms at their weakest, when BFding is the most difficult. BFding is free and no one benefits (except the child and mother) financially from it. Why on earth would anyone support that? LOL

NO really, I think free formula is dumb.

mckayleesmom replied: Personally...I think its a womans choice what she wants to do and its rude to assume that you can sway their decision based on freebies...I personally bought formula just in case anyways, so the whole freebie thing really wouldn't factor in.

EvesMom replied: "Backers of the ban say the formula gift bags discourage new mothers from breast-feeding. Formula manufacturers call the ban unnecessary and doubt ending the decades-old custom would lead to a rise in the number of mothers who breast-feed"
Hmmmmmm....... I got one of those gift bags, and guess what? I have been breastfeeding my daughter for 5 months and 2 weeks!
It seems that our government thinks we Americans can't make desisions on our own.
Oh my goodness, I can't breastfeed my child because I got a free sample of formula!

kimberley replied: well i am kind of split on this even tho i am pro BF. i agree every mom should make their own choice and know the risks/benefits of both and breast is best...
but what about those younger naive moms who are told you should bf but can't handle the crazy hours of baby nursing, especially thru growth spurts, or the painfully sore nipples and just lets the child starve? i'd rather see that baby get a bottle of formula than dehydrate or be malnourished.

in my perfect world, everyone would be educated on the subject and they would send home a lactation consultant with every new mom but that isn't going to happen, so i'd rather be safe than sorry.

MommyToAshley replied: I haven't read the article yet, but I will when I have more time. But, I wanted to share my experience.

I was asked whether I was going to BF or formula feed at the hospital. I said BF and I was given a daiper bag from the formula company that was geared towards BF. It had some information promoting BF, some insulation bags for pumped BM, a little tube of lanosil (which was a life saver), bottles that fit the hand pump given by the hospital and some other misc samples.

Maybe the hospital required the formula companies to supply these bags if they were going to give away the formula ones. The hospital was very pro BF and had BF resources and help available, even though they didn't push one way or another. I'd say that is the route to go rather than banning the freebies all together.

coasterqueen replied:
ITA!

BF is HEALTHIER for the baby, so why would we push formula on them in the hospital.

I have a lot more I could say but this is a subject I dare not approach.

jcc64 replied:

Right on, Cary. I think believe or not, there ARE people who haven't made up their minds yet, and if it's a choice between struggling through the often difficult early days of bf, or popping in a bottle of free and easily available formula, I can absolutely see how minds can be changed. Not everyone who gives birth is educated or prepared or supported, kwim? And those are the very people the formula companies are trying to reach.
I am well aware that many people do not want the gov't interfering in personal decisions. And yet, we allow it in many ways already every day. We all accept mandatory seat belt and car seat laws as protecting our collective best interests. Shouldn't we all just be trusted to know that wearing a seat belt is the safest way to travel? Why is it ok to allow gov't interference in this case? No one is outlawing formula consumption. If you want to formula feed, great, no one should stop you. I just don't see why it has to be so enthusiastically promoted in an obviously influential place like a maternity ward.

coasterqueen replied:
ITA! See I can't say what I want to in a tactful manner, lol.

For instance, what about those mothers who TRY to BF in the hospital but their babies won't latch on and so the nurses give them a bottle of formula to feed the baby so the baby doesn't lose any weight....UM WRONG THING TO DO!

I am thankful 10 times over that I gave birth in a BF friendly hospital but I'm thankful 100 times over that I OVER-educated myself on BF before I ever got there or left. Because both times I would have been given the bottle of formula because my babies wouldn't latch on. Course there were a few nurses who just told me to give up, but *I* knew what was best.

My3LilMonkeys replied:
I agree that this is the best way to go.

A&A'smommy replied: I think its awesome!!! I personally NEVER used the freebies because it wasn't the formula we used but I think its an interesting idea

luvmykids replied: I wasn't totally sure I was going to BF, I was afraid I couldn't hack it with twins. But the formula samples obviously didn't sway me, and JMHO I don't think sending them home is all that discouraging. If someone is tipped to that side just because someone handed them a sample, they probably weren't that firm about BF to begin with, KWIM? Personally, the lactation lady drove me so batty I wanted to FF just so she would never come back!

gr33n3y3z replied:
Same here also

ediep replied: I agree with DeeDee. Wouldn't the best idea be to ask the parents how they plan on feeding....BF or FF and then have a free gift ready to supprot the decision.

I, personally, did not BF and I still wouldn't do it if I had any more kids....free formula or not.

Bee_Kay replied: I was given samples with both of my children.

I bottlefed Ash right away and with Ty, I did try BF but it hurt (really hurt) to the point I was crying while doing it.
So I talked to the doctor and he saw what was going on and he suggested that I FF.
So, I did and I have very healthy babies

I do regret that I didn't BF both of my children because I feel it is a wonderful thing to do , but I don't feel that any samples swayed my decision.

~*Just Me*~ replied: I say get rid of them. Why have them at all? They should be supporting breastfeeding more, and pushing formula less. If the medical community knows breastfeeding is so much better, they should be supporting that. If a mom chooses to formula feed, she should bring her own formula from home, not depend on what the hospital has. And I think it's ridiculous for a formula company to give away "breastfeeding support bags", because it is full of misinformation, and could possibly make a mom give up nursing way too early & too easily.

MamaJAM replied: Completely DISAGREE! BFing is not right for everyone.

The hospital that I delivered all of my kids in always asked how I planned to feed. They had 2 gift bags - 1 for FF 1 for BF - and they'd give you the appropriate bag for your home. I think it's unfair to stop handing out formula samples, etc just because some people think it's "pushing FF".

Bee_Kay replied:
ITA.... well said !

PrairieMom replied:

Hillbilly Housewife replied:
Don't you have 3 kids?

At the hospital where I had all 3 of my kids, there are pro-breastfeeding posters and information everywhere. There is also a "small" section on formula feeding, pamphlets and such. The hospital does give a bag of goodies... a few types of diapers, a few diaper cream samples, a small tube of vaseline, some infant tylenol samples, stuff like that. They do not give out formula samples, period. When you are pregnant, you have to have a tour of the maternity ward at the hospital during your pre-inscription around 7 months. You are given a list of what you need to bring - and it is clearly stated that you NEED to bring your own diapers, wipes, sanitary pads, and if you are formula feeding, you will need to bring your own formula and bottles. It says if you haven't made up your mind yet, bring your own formula, and you can use a hospital pump if you choose to breastfeed.

They have LC there all the time.

They do have Formula at the hospital... however the ONLY babies that get it are babies with serious health issues - and sometimes babies who have lost too much weight after birth. To top it off, they are given the formula through a small tube, not with a bottle. Nurses are pretty good though, at that hospital - they are honest and TELL you that breasteeding is HARD, and to expect some trouble if it's your first time... but that they are there to support you.

They will give you sugar water though, IF YOU ASK. My babies never cried through the night the first night at the hospital... others' babies did - and the poor woman I shared a room with... was crying from exhaustion. She was having SUCH a hard time... her baby didn't stop crying - it was HUNGRY, and her milk obviously hadn't come in yet. After a while... my dh was chatting with HER dh... and her dh said she was crying more because MY baby wasn't crying at all - and hers wouldn't shut up. So I went to talk to here - and I told her to ask for a bottle of sugar water. The nurse might put up a bit of resistance, but it was her right to get it. When she did, I showed her how I gave my baby a little bit from a cup... just to satisfy the hunger feeling for a little while... to calm the baby down to be able to try to latch on again. She did, and the baby was quiet for TWO WHOLE HOURS!!!! We both got some sleep, and our husbands walked around together witht he babies.

Bee_Kay replied:

Yes, I HAVE 3 kids.... I gave birth to 2 of them.

gr33n3y3z replied:
The medical community knows alot of things but what is best for one may not be for others.
The medical community also knows drinking and smoking are bad for you and they do it so are they going to tell ppl. what they should and shouldnt do?
I BF all my kids but to tell mothers you dont have a choice is ****** ** IMO
I'm just so sick of ppl. trying to run other ppl.'s lives and making them feel bad bc they dont do it their way.

I found the info that was in my bag very informative plus I got a nice pump

~*Just Me*~ replied:
Sorry, I have to respond to this.

Did I say the moms didn't have a choice? No, I didn't. Most formula feeders feed formula because they know nothing about breastfeeding, and no one is there to help them make a wise decision. So, I would think the hospital should help them make a good decision, and not push the formula, and not give out the freebies. But if the mom chooses to formula feed, she should bring her own (which she should already have at home if she's determined to formula feed).

I would also like to know why some think "breastfeeding isn't for them". Why wouldn't you feed you baby the best nutrition you can? Why give them something so inferior, which can make them sicker?

MamaJAM replied:
Okie dokie -- I'll reply to this.

I did start to BF my first baby...but only because I felt pressured by so many in the 'medical community'. I was lead to believe that by not BFing I was depriving my DD of something WONDERFUL, etc. What a COMPLETE NIGHTMARE! First off....my DD had problems digesting my breastmilk -- I cut all gassy foods as well as all dairy out of my diet -- she was still horribly gassy and miserable....not to mention that the longest she'd ever stay latched on at any given time was 10 mins. The doc finally suggested I suppliment with formula. That was also a problem at first (she was on milk-based formula). I then got an infection on my one nipple and breastfeeding was such an awful experience that I stopped it all together. When DD was about 3 months old - the doc suggested soy formula....FINALLY my baby was happy - eating well - no longer gassy.
All 4 of our other kids were given soy formula from birth. I don't feel the slightest bit of guilt about it either. They were all VERY HEALTHY and very happy.

Frankly - I find comments about formula being less than "the best nutrition" a load of bull. I saw it first-hand with my own baby. Breastmilk was not good for her -- she was constantly miserable and hardly could eat.
Formula is far from "inferior" -- and it does NOT make babies "sicker". My first baby was truly my sickest newborn. My other 4 kids were all extremely healthy newborns and infants.

Bee_Kay replied: I agree with MamaJam.

Formula feeding shouldn't be considered "inferior".... great way to make new mothers that are FF feel like crap.

My2Beauties replied: I think this is turning into more of a to FF or BF issue and it shouldn't be, the question was do you think they should give the free samples or not? I am not going to get into the FF or BF issue on this, everyone on this board pretty much knows how I stand and that I BF my daughter for 6 weeks and then weaned her when I went back to work. Point blank, if the formula companies want to spend their money on samples for the hospitals - let it be, like someone else said it's no different from the other samples you get in the mail or at the hospital. Heck I got coupons for so much $$ off Sears and JCPenney portraits, I got stuff about Birthday Clubs, I mean a devout Jehovah's Witness could be offended by that don't ya think? Just like a mother who is extremely pro BF could be offended by the fact that they give our samples of formula, it's just a sample. I know I was a little extreme about the JW thing, but hey you could argue that ya know.

mckayleesmom replied: Whats the difference in getting it free at the hospital or getting it in the mail? I don't know about anyone else, but I recieved a free can of formula in the mail and I have no clue how they found out I had a baby...probably the hospital. Anyways...it was before I got sick and couldn't breastfeed Russ anymore and I gave it away....It didn't sway my decision....After I got sick I wished to heck that I had kept that stupid can of formula.

MamaJAM replied:
Sorry - I didn't mean to debate at all...I just felt I had to reply to a particular comment that was made.


For me - I feel if the formula companies want to give hospital's samples to give out - then that's fine. A mother can always refuse to take the sample...it's not like they force you to take it. It's no different than magazine, lotion and daiper samples or getting coupons for everything from baby meds to hemoroid creams to portraits.

My2Beauties replied:
I wasn't referring to you or anyone in particular hon - I just thought that was what it was going to turn into sorry for any confusion, don't want to single anyone out!

Bee_Kay replied: Judy-

I didn't see you debating at all. IMHO, there was a particular comment made that was "attacking" in nature. Therefore all I saw in your post was taking a defensive stance (can't blame ya either)

MamaJAM replied:
No - it's ok...I know you didn't mean _me_ in particular. I just felt a need to reply to what you said.

jcc64 replied:

Gotta respond to this, Lisa. First, though, thanks LeaAnn for trying to steer this conversation back on track. I really didn't want this to turn into a ff vs bf debate, as I stated in the op.

Now, to respond to the quote above, I fail to see how banning formula freebies translates into "running other people's lives". No one is suggesting that ff should somehow be punished or judged for their choices. Although the compelling medical evidence exists and many women are aware of it, some choose to ff for a variety of reasons, legitimate or not, and that is their right to do so. No one is suggesting otherwise, at least I'm not.
What I am objecting to is the entanglement of business marketing practices and the medical community, period. Formula companies are not interested in what's best for babies and mothers. They are interested in profits, as you would expect them to be. One would hope, however, that drs and hospitals and the medical community in general would understand that this is a conflict of interest, and that if the formula companies want to co-opt potential ff, that they do so outside of their domain. It's not like you have to travel very far to pick up a can of formula. Why does it have to be given out by a hospital? (sounds like Canada got it right, imo)
Once again, I find myself argueing for a gov't that puts the compelling needs of children ahead of
business' insatiable desire to maximize profits at their expense. It's the same thing as the flu shot thing I posted yesterday. Money always seems to come first.

~*Just Me*~ replied:
Well, it's a proven fact that it IS inferior; I certaninly wouldn't consider it equal or better!! And it's their own fault for feeling like crap, because they know breastfeeding is better!

jcc64 - great points there ! It's just about money, money, money, and not what's best for mom's & babies.

coasterqueen replied:
I will agree in the most polite way possible that formula is considered inferior to breastmilk. I won't argue whether it should be because I don't feel this is the place to do that.

The AAP would tell you that breastmilk from the breast is the #1 healthiest thing for your baby, then I get #2 and #3 mixed up - it either goes #2 is your own pumped breastmilk in a bottle and #3 is donated breastmilk (or vice versus) then lastly #4 would be formula. So in all reality it is inferior as far as the healthiest thing for your baby, it's medically proven (not sure that's the right choice of words, I guess).

Again, not debating here whether it should be or not, just stating fact in the most polite way as possible.

edited to change best to breast. Also to say that this part is not a part of the topic on hand, though.

My2Beauties replied: I agree that BF is best for any child and I see where this is going to be an issue on FF vs BF anyways probably, so yes it is best, BUT.....let's keep certain comments that could be perceived in a bad way to ourselves. This topic could be very informative and a great learning opportunity if we do not attack each other. Us mods would hate to have to close this thread. We shouldn't judge others until we know all the facts, then we still shouldn't really judge Thanks.

Bee_Kay replied: What rubbed me the wrong way about your post is that it came across (at least to me) as very agressive in nature and pointed directly to mothers that have chosen to FF.

I believe the original intent of this post is how the hospitals and manufacturers of formula try to sway new mothers one way or the other..... not to judge mothers on whether they BF or FF or why they choose to do so (other than basically asking if the "freebies" swayed their decision).

It was pointed out clearly that this is not a post for debate... but for discussion.

coasterqueen replied:
I totally agree, and the topic has gotten OFF topic, so let's ALL get back to the topic at hand, because it really is a good topic.

jem0622 replied: I do not support this ban at all. I truly think it is a matter of choice and, at times, circumstance.

luvmykids replied: One more little tidbit, I have a friend who had a baby, they were strapped financially and didn't qualify for aid, the samples at the hospital helped them out a lot, they got about 2 weeks worth which to them was a lot of money at the time.

Why not BF if you're broke, is not the topic so I won't go into that ....

coasterqueen replied:
I won't touch the last bit there, but I don't know if anyone knows, seems like your friend may not have but if you are going to formula feed you can fill out the little postcards you see in mags or in doc offices and formula companies will send you free formula samples before you ever have your baby. One of my friends did this and when I mean samples we are talking big cans, several cans.

punkeemunkee'smom replied: I don't support the ban-If I had gotten home from the hospital and not had the ability to BF a can of formula would have been very useful!

~*Just Me*~ replied:
Why not send hubby out to get one then? It's very rare to not be able to breastfeed, and it's easy for the mom to give up & put that bottle in the baby's mouth, instead of having the resources necessary for getting help with breastfeeding.

Hillbilly Housewife replied: Sorry Bee Kay - I didn't mean to offend if I did.. I was just confused for a minute!!



Jeanne... Canada got it right in the sense that you have to bring your own supplies - one of the "helping hands" that gives us no cost health care. The hospitals don't have to buy or sponsor those kinds of samples... I think a middle ground in hospitals would be best. A little bit of being able to pay for medical stuff - and a little bit of free stuff. There are some days where I WISH I could just pay the dang 500$ and other medical costs and get seen right away, especially those days where you have to wait 5 HOURS in a hospital just to see a doctor about something, or about 2 hours in a clinic.

Free formula sample - or free health care... hmmm... heh heh just kidding!

The grass is always greener...

On another note - This debate seems to be getting more and more familiar in the tones to some of the comments said. It would be nice to be able to discuss a topic without having sarcastic or hurtful comments on personal opinions...we all have our own opinions and we should all be adult enough to be able to be respectful to each other. There are terms of service for these forums... and members have been banned for violating them, and will continue to be banned for violating them, so please everyone..... Can't we all just get along?

punkeemunkee'smom replied:
My husband could have gone and gotten formula if needed-that is not the point. He was not able to stay home from work for a week and sometimes BFing does not work right away-thus some WONDERFUL moms supplement. And since you do not know the circumstances surrounding the birth of my child-it is unfair and RUDE to ASSUME that all woman who CHOOSE not to BF or are UNABLE to do so are giving up too easily-If you don't want the free samples DON'T take them-it is really that simple. We did not need the formula-but some moms may. There are so many kinds on the market now and having to BUY milk based/Soy based/Iron free...ETC can get costly and wasteful-what is the big deal about giving away a few samples to new moms? I can't help but wonder if you would be so adament about NO SAMPLES if they were giving away something you supported such as cloth diapers.....The cloth diapering companies make plenty of $$$ just as the formula companies do!

mckayleesmom replied:
Well said...

kayla's mama replied: [QUOTE]QUOTE (punkeemunkee'smom @ Feb 23 2006, 12:52 PM)
QUOTE (~*Just Me*~ @ Feb 23 2006, 12:37 PM)
QUOTE (punkeemunkee'smom @ Feb 23 2006, 12:33 PM)
I don't support the ban-If I had gotten home from the hospital and not had the ability to BF a can of formula would have been very useful!


Why not send hubby out to get one then? It's very rare to not be able to breastfeed, and it's easy for the mom to give up & put that bottle in the baby's mouth, instead of having the resources necessary for getting help with breastfeeding.


My husband could have gone and gotten formula if needed-that is not the point. He was not able to stay home from work for a week and sometimes BFing does not work right away-thus some WONDERFUL moms supplement. And since you do not know the circumstances surrounding the birth of my child-it is unfair and RUDE to ASSUME that all woman who CHOOSE not to BF or are UNABLE to do so are giving up too easily-If you don't want the free samples DON'T take them-it is really that simple. We did not need the formula-but some moms may. There are so many kinds on the market now and having to BUY milk based/Soy based/Iron free...ETC can get costly and wasteful-what is the big deal about giving away a few samples to new moms? I can't help but wonder if you would be so adament about NO SAMPLES if they were giving away something you supported such as cloth diapers.....The cloth diapering companies make plenty of $$$ just as the formula companies do!


Well said...
punkeemunkee'smom Posted on Feb 23 2006, 11


ITA!!!!!

luvmykids replied:
FWIW, when my niece was born, mommy was sick w/ other complications and couldn't BF, daddy sure appreciated not having to go get formula with a new baby and sick wife.

Respectfully, the topic is not to argue for or against BF. I understand you feel passionately about it, as do many, however it's not always black and white or a matter of simply giving up.

mckayleesmom replied:
also well said.....the origional topic keeps getting overlooked by peoples views on how they think people should feed thier children in the first place.

jcc64 replied:

Is this directed at me? Fwiw, I didn't use cloth diapers, if it was.

I understand what you're implying. You believe that b/c I didn't ff, I don't want the option made available to anyone. You definitely missed my point.
I'm a little frustrated at the accusations that supporting this ban somehow translates into "telling other people how to run their lives." For the 3rd time, I simply saw this as an imposition of business interests on the medical community whose primary concern should be the health and well being of its patients. I am not asking for, nor am I interested in, why anyone here chose to bf or not. I simply think that if the very same medical organizations that perpetually publish info espousing the benefits of bf are also handing out cans of formula, it is contradictory. Just as many here are adamant about gov't interference, I am adamant about business interference. I wish the dr/patient thing had a little more protection, that's all.

3_call_me_mama replied:
That's exactally what i got too Dee Dee. I reallly dont' care if I got free formula samples or not. They jsut went right to teh food shelf anyways. It was nice to be able to pas them off to someone who woudl use them. I think it should be more like "do you want info on feeding your child?" and if a parent wants a free sample cause they intend to formula feed then they can ask for them IMO. Especially since they would eb offered a conversation about feedin gan infant (Where the nurse can get out the info that breastmilk is all teh baby needs for 6 months etc" and if the parent says "i;m not going to breast feed teh nurse can have a formula discussion with them and still tell them about the formula being all they need for 6 months, etc" and then mention that sometimes companies will give out free samples adn if the mom ask where to or how to get them than go from there in distributing them. " Just my thoughts on it.

3_call_me_mama replied: And as far as free stuff being given out.. I'd LOVE to get free cloth diapers at the hospital rather than the disposable ones, but they dont' give them out. Disposable diaper compaines make BILLIONS a year Just liek formula compaines, baby food companies, and any other company that chooses to advertise. That's bottom line what teh free samples are all about. It's about advertising. Trying to get you to use and buy their product. No matter what they put in those bags, they aren't there to "just help a new mom out" they are there to get you to buy that product that you got for free.
In teh case of formula.. you tried that free one first and had no issues, you are more likely ot buy that kind again. Same for diapers. You try the huggies or whatever your hospital gives adn you have no real issues, you keep buying them (unless you already ahve a predisposition for another brand/type). The gerber coupons. You save them, cause they don't expire for like 5 years form when you ge tthem. and you use them and they work fine no alaeriges and then BAM you keep buying them.
Like I sai before I could care less if i get free samples or not.. butit's a marketing scheme. It works wonders too!!!! How many of you used ANYTHING out of that bag and then bought a bigger size of teh actual product? Seriously think about it. ANYTHIGN AT ALL> A coupon. a diaper, a wipe, a lotion sample, lanoish nipple cream < anyhting at all. That is how advertizing works.
So the ban wouldnt' be necessarily steering moms from formula feeding it woudl be more like a reduction in teh formula companies free ad campaign

punkeemunkee'smom replied:
Absolutely not directed at you I was responding to the statement made by JUST ME that if I had been unable to breast feed that my husband could have gone out and gotten a can of formula.Not always a possiblity.

ITA that the AMA is always espousing the benifits of BFing,as well as not smoking,eating right and getting 8 hours of sleep a night.... Of course all of the recomendations above are rarely followed as a whole. I was simply stating in my original response that IF a woman who just had a baby CHOOSES to accept a few samples of formula,diapers,desitin-I don't feel it is a garantee that she will FF or that if she chooses to she "gave up" to quickly or to easily-I am a whole hearted supporter of BFing-it was a wonderful experience for me and my DD but I have plenty of friends who did not go the same route-Is it commercialism to hand out these samples OF COURSE it is-But drug companies had out samples of their products as well,as do MANY other product companies. I am simply saying that to ban a hospital from equiping a new mother to make all the choices available to her and her baby seems a bit over the top....IMO the bag of stuff that they sent home with us was kinda fun and exciting to me-it was like every baby product company in the world was acknowledging the birth of our new daughter!

kimberley replied:
but what isn't contradictory with doctors anymore? more of their advice stems from what company gives the biggest kickbacks as opposed to what is best for the patient. it is sad imo. having a son with eczema, i have had all the latest "magic" creams thrown at me and used on my child for extended periods.. only to learn a few years later that it is now causing cancer. they had the info before it was marketed.. so why was it marketed? why did my doc recommend it.. he is supposed to be a specialist. that is the reality and getting rid of formula in hospitals doesn't even put a dent into the problem.

MommyToAshley replied: I think due to my own personal experience, I disagree with most of the opinions here about the confict of interest between business influence and medical care. And, maybe that's why we all have such differing opinions, we all had different experiences.

I found the hosptial and my doc both to be a great source of information. The classes offered by the hospital covered both choices for BF and FF. The classes were informative, but didn't make the parent feel bad about their choices. In the BF classes, of course they talked about the benefits of BF. But, it wasn't forced on everyone to take the class. And, we were given samples there as well... lanosil, breast pads, etc. I am sure the companies supplying these products were out to make a few bucks, but I welcomed the samples and the information. So, if you ban the samples of formula should you ban these samples as well?

I don't think the important issue here is whether or not the hospital gives out cans of formula or samples of lanosil, but whether medical proffessionals are doing their job to educate and give the facts... it's then up to the parent to make the decision. I don't think that banning samples is going to make that happen. Banning the samples will just get rid of the samples, but it won't help to give the parents the facts they need to make their own informed decisions. I think the ban is focusing on the wrong issues.

gr33n3y3z replied: All I was getting at is this

At least here in our Hospitals the formula is free to them they dont pay for it
So where is it costing anyone money at? The only place I see is the nanufactor

And during Child Birth classes they taught us about BF and its best for baby and Mom I chose to BF all my babies.
But if a mother decides to bottle feed what is the harm in her choice.
The Hospital has no say nor does the goverment or state.

MommyToAshley replied:
I agree. Even before Ashley was born, I loved looking at all the samples that came in the mail. It may be silly, but it was fun and exciting to look through all the different products sent to "MY BABY".

luvbug00 replied: I just wanted to say that I was unable to breast feed my child and being a young, budgeting, freaked out mother of a premi I couodn't have been more greatful to get the samples. I was told by my doctor Mya was too small and needed to gain weight and she wan't gonna do it as fast on breast milk not to mention I only produced enough to feed a mouse. I did try laction consultents after our hospital release and still nothing so I am very greatful for the samples and I'm glad they give them out. If somone REALLY wants to BF I believe they'd do it no matter what.

Cece00 replied:
I really dislike this attitude towards women who FF. I do not like when I see people who basically say (or insinuate) that mothers who FF right away and even women who HAVE TO FF somehow do not care about the nutrition of their child, or the child's health, even their IQ etc. Very sad IMO, and this is coming from someone who has both BF her children and FF her children when she COULD NOT (not did not want to, but COULD NOT) BF her children any longer.

As far as the samples issue...

I have NO problem with the sample bags, and I went home BF all of my children. I will BF my 4th child as well (as long as I can, and/or want to), and the bags & samples do not and would not bother me in the least.

Personally I, as an intelligent woman, find it insulting to think that b/c I received small formula samples from a hospital that I would automatically go "Oh, I guess I will FF then." I mean honestly, I have a mind of my own (as I am sure most women do). I also have NEVER met a woman who said "You know, I am unsure of which type of feeding I plan to do." then was handed a bag with some formula & said "Oh, well then, here I go."

I do not for a minute buy that if someone is given free formula that they are automatically going to turn to that (unless it was their choice to FF to begin with).

My2Beauties replied:
Grrrr I had the same deal Kimberly. Hanna has really mild eczema so she has just the occasionally falre-ups and I was using the "wonderful" cream called Elidil for months on her, it worked really well (but was so expensive, even with insurance) and guess what - I heard a news report that Elidil is related to skin cancer - threw that crap out and got a prescription for the cheaper stuff that has been around for years! Grrrr sorry I had to say something about that!

gr33n3y3z replied:
What are you both using on your kids?
bc Katie has a little of that also and over the counter creams do not work.

Hillbilly Housewife replied: lol

everybody likes freebies.. come on... admit it... lol

just kidding!

I think that like every other sample I get - dish soap in the mail etc... i will use it - but unless it REALLY impresses me, I still use the cheaper stuff... it's nice to have a break from cheap and go brandname once in a while.



I did get 2 cans in the mail. I did open one recently - because I didn't have enough pumped milk and so I sent some to the sitters to complement. Only 2 ounces of it, but still. I was glad to have it in my cupboard - it was a last minute life-saver - cuz I'm not about to feed another woman's expensive body fluid to my child. The other can I likely won't have to open, and so I'll likely donate it.

This is interesting!

My2Beauties replied:
Oh man, I forget the name of the stuff I use now, starts with a D, let me go home and check, I'll let you know, it works really good.

gr33n3y3z replied:
Ok great thank you

jcc64 replied:

Exactly, Kimberly! This is what I'm talking about.

kimberley replied: i've used elidel, protopic, cortisone of all strengths, vaseline, aloe/vit E creams, oils... it's been 7yrs can't even think of all the crud he's used never mind the inhalers. the only thing that helps sort of is bathing him with moisturizing oils in bath, then slathering him in vaseline and wrapping his legs with gauze so he can't scratch it. we reapply vaseline about 4times a day

coasterqueen replied:
I am sorry you find that insulting personally. I think even intelligent women can be swayed by formula samples in a time of crisis, as any intellgent person can be swayed by a chocolate candy bar sitting in front of them even though they know it's not good for them, especially if they are trying to lose weight. KWIM? . I know I was sent formula samples in the mail. Someone must have filled out a card for me, probably my mom. Anyways, I gave the sample away because it sitting in my cupboard was way too tempting for me, especially during those times of the bazillion growth spurts babies go through and being a new stressed out mother. So I honestly do think anyone, intelligent or not, can be swayed by a sample depending upon the circumstance they find themselves in.

Just like I replied early on in this post that a mother who is being told her baby is not gaining weight while they are BF..they may feel scared, confused, not educated enough to know that if they just stick with it the baby is/will be ok, but most times they go straight to formula. Case in point, happened to my very close friend. I so wish she would have called me while in the hospital because I would have talked her out of it.

Not everyone seriously educates themselves about BF before going to the hospital. Sure I read the books, I went to the pitiful hospital BF class that was offered, but did I know everything I needed to know to go through what I did for the 5 days I was in there with my baby who wouldn't latch on? NO. Was the formula they pushed on me tempting, yes, was it my intelligence that steered me away, most likely, but most of all it was my drive to succeed.

I truly think one can be swayed by the samples given at the hospital as the number of people I've helped with BF on BF boards have mentioned it did happen to them.

Hillbilly Housewife replied:
I went to walmart last week - speaking of vaseline... I got 5 of those big squirt bottles the extra strength ones... intensive care i think - they were on sale for almost half price - emilie has really bad eczema too - it seems to work really well.

punkeemunkee'smom replied: Is it Diflucan or something like that? When Tay had warts on her hands I think that was a cream they said to try in between treatments of the other junk...they also gave us Aldara but I never used it ....

My2Beauties replied:
No it isn't Diflucan, it's something else, might not even start with a D but I think it does. Man I am going to have to go straight home and look and post it now. You guys have me wondering what the heck it is now. I was really tempted to call the pharmacy a while ago and ask what it was I am so anal when I can't remember the name of someone/thing. LOL