I think the main problem is that we don't want to take ownership of using formula. I have seen it time and time again, and was in that place myself so also talking from experience, that often women seeking help are also seeking the comforting words "is it ok to use formula". We are grown women, we don't need anyone's permission to do so, just like we don't need permission to use cloth or disposable, sleep bubs in a cot or to buy a certain pram.

I will always stand by that it is not the ABA's place to give support for formula use. There are MCHN's that can assist, as mine did when I have to use formula top ups. I honestly believe many people think the ABA is a general baby feeding advise service, but it is not, it is about breastfeeding. I am sure there would be a stream of complaints it any councillor was quick to say, "ah thats ok, just grab a tin of formula". The ABA is really in a no win situation.

I have been to hell and back to breastfeed both my girls, unfortunately with some top ups in the early days. I got there though, I doubt I would have if everyone around me was saying "grab a tin, its ok". (Well my MIL was, but I was using her anti BF stance as my driving force to make it work).