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

[MantaRay]

Kelly, I think that's a great idea about the ABA training health professionals. It's important that if something like this was to be introduced, that it is for all health professionals, those already practicing, not just new graduates. Otherwise it would be a long time before we would see a difference.

I do really hope that all these ideas and sharing of experiences make a difference. As some of the posters have pointed out, some women will always choose formula. Also, some women will bf easily with no problems. But the vast majority of new mums will either struggle against the odds to bf, or give up when they really did want to succeed with bfing. There is so much that could be done to change this situation, with huge benefits.

[Steph]

Hi Kelly and MelanieR, this is a fantastic idea as ABA does have the ability and infrstructure to do this - as a Community Educator for ABA, my primary focus is "educating" anyone about the benefits. However it it not so easy in reality - the health professionals are sometimes the most difficult to deal with; eg: the hospital where I had my two (and will be having my 3rd) is VERY pro-breastfeeding, but won't allow ABA to visit new Mum's and leave them with info about what a supportive organisation we are. When I tirelessly refused to take no for an answer and went to the very highest person in the hospital I found out the reason is simply that the health professionals involved felt threatened by ABA "encroaching" on their territory as they are supposed to be the "professionals". I have no medical training, but I am a Mum, I have successfully breastfed 2 babies, I have supported and helped Mum's who have wanted to breastfeed, why can't I and my ABA peers work with health professionals to ensure breastfeeding continues past when Mum's leave hospital? It is not about who is in the right, or who has the best medical knowledge, it is about creating a supportive environment, so Mum's can feel nurtured and valued and have somewhere/someone to turn to in the tough times - parenting can be tough, whether it's breastfeeding, sleeping, discipline, care choices - all of these things would be easier if a Mum felt she had support to choose what is right for her, especially when that choice is the tough road!!
By the way - ABA CE's are ALWAYS available for any event!! We are often looking for opportunities, so if you know a group, or a school, or pregnant Mum's, or health professionals, or anyone who wants to know more - PLEASE contact your local ABA group (listed in white pages) and ask for a Community Educator. ABA needs the help of the community to stay a strong organisation, we are all volunteers and we welcome any help!!!