I understand, but I deal with the repercussions.

I understand that it helps to draw distinctions between two choices to help prove your case. I know that making dramatic statements grabs attention, so that people pay attention. I understand that promoting breastfeeding is essential for children’s health. I get it, because, I’m out there, working with my pregnant and postpartum patients, encouraging and teaching, providing advice and support. I understand that it’s helpful to say “Breast is Best.” It’s a great slogan, and for most situations, yes, I agree, breast is best.

Yet, what happens, when breast isn’t best? What happens when a mom can’t breastfeed, through no fault of her own? What happens when she comes up against her own situation and can’t provide breastmilk exclusively? What is she supposed to do? What is she supposed to think about her only alternative for feeding and nourishing her baby?

I understand that when we promote breastfeeding, we are casting a wide net and hoping to increase the numbers of moms who breastfeed. I get it. What happens, though, when the healthy alternative, in this case, formula, is demonized? What happens? Let me tell you, what happens. Moms feel guilty! Moms who want to do everything they can for their babies, who give up sleep, time for themselves, who would stand on their head, who sacrifice so much, feel that in some way they're not being a good mom.

I saw a mom in tears this week, whose medical condition prevented her from producing enough milk. It took her a long time to compose herself and then she finally was able to verbalize one of her fears. She asked me if I thought she was a bad mom because she had to feed her baby with a safe and healthy formula. Can you imagine that? Her husband, her pediatrician and her best friend all reassured her, and yet the messages that she hears about formula made her question her role as a mother.

So, yes, I understand, but I also work with real people, in real situations and see what happens when things don’t work out the way we would like them to.