What do you think is the biggest barrier to breastfeeding In Australia?

[RachaelAustin]

ETA: - Wow RachaelAustin, I had no idea that midwives don't recieve training on b/f! That amazes me! I would say that could be one of the best ways to improve the b/f rate in Aus. As the midwives are there for so much of the support during those first crucial days.

I know it's scary! But consider this too. For the little education midwives get...doctors get even less, if any. And frequently women turn to them for advice (doctors should know right) often get VERY dodgy, very inaccurate, not researched advice . But in fairness to doctors (SURGEONS) they are trained in high risk birth, not normal everyday birth that accounts for approx 95% of the population.

The training is apalling for a start, then accessibility to trained professionals i.e LC's.

Blessings,
Rachael Austin
Midwife in Private Practice

[amy&rafi]

rachael austin- it has been really great reading what you have to say! i completely agree with you on all accounts!

my mum (who has been a breastfeeding mother for 27 years) was told recently by a doctor that my baby sister (9 mths) should no longer be on the breast. that it was ridiculous that a 'child of that age' still be being breastfed. he told her that there 'was no nutritional value to it after 3 mths and any mother who continues to after that age is only doing it for their own gratification'... !!! talk about misinformation!!

not a big blow to my mum though cos she can't stand doctors at the best of times so thankfully she took that advice with a grain of salt...

it is surprising how little education is provided to midwives considering the most common reason for mothers hitting the 'nurse call' bell is for breastfeeding queries... hopefully the course outlines in universities will steadily change over the upcoming years.