This formula for breastfeeding is way off base

File this one under "taking things way far into the realm of ridiculous."  A doctor in Australia is proposing making formula available by prescription only, in an attempt to boost breastfeeding rates.

"When women are having problems, and it's very challenging learning to breast feed, the formula is readily available and the marketing suggests that babies will thrive on it, so women go for it," Dr James said. "I would like to see formula prescribed by a health professional rather than being available in supermarkets and chemists."

As one can imagine, her proposal is not being met well by new moms or by doctors' groups.  Luckily, I presume, those saner minds will prevail.

For one, it is correct to say that infants will thrive on formula.  If they didn't, the FDA and other health authorities wouldn't have approved it.  Infant formula meets the strictest standards of any product the FDA has approved.  It contains all the nutrients, proteins, and fats etc. that a newborn needs. 

Bullying by legislating when people can use formula is not the way to boost breastfeeding rates in Australia or elsewhere.  There are lots of other real reasons why many women don't breastfeed.  Tackle those. 

For the mom who's at her wits end, is sleep deprived and is overwhelmed, if breastfeeding isn't working, formula is a safe and nutritious alternative.