NYC acts as Nanny
by Kate Kahn - 30th July 2007
The headline in The New York Post says it all today "NYC Acts as Nanny in new Breastfeeding Push."
Yes, it official. As of today none of the 11 public hospitals in New York City will hand out formula samples in their goodie bags to new mothers. From now on any new moms who want formula samples while in the hospital have to ask for them. The move is timed to coincide with World BreastFeeding Week which is set to begin tomorrow.
Don't get me wrong. I'm all for breastfeeding. What I don't agree with is our government deciding what I can or can't get in a goodie bag. Seems like we're moving in the wrong direction (isn't our country based on freedom of choice?). I've said it before and I'll say it again; I truly do not think that giving a sample of formula in a goodie bag determines the choice a mother makes when it comes to feeding her child. Most women make that decision well ahead of their arrival at the maternity ward. It's like saying providing a sample of disposable diapers in the bags determines what kind of diapers a woman is likely to use once she leaves the hospital! Give women credit where credit's due .
New York City's decision puts the onus on a new mother---already overwhelmed by the many things that come at one after having a baby---to ask for formula if she wants it. I'm guessing that many moms-to-be don't know that this is now the case. Mr. Bloomberg has no right to tell women what choices they should be presented with. If you agree, please SIGN OUR PETITION.
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