By: ADAF Momof3

ADAF Momof3 — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:01:35 +0000

All it takes is a few minutes on the internet and one can find the medical information with the science to back it up on the importance of breastfeeding, even for just a short time.
What I have found in the military is that most people are uninformed or misinformed regarding the policies on breastfeeding and post-birth deployment deferments. Although I don’t like the current policies and believe that they need to be changed, at least a 12 month post-birth deferment policy to begin with, most of them allow for commanders to make case-by-case exceptions. My advice to all military members, including supervisors and commanders, not just breastfeeding moms, is to start by learning the regulations. If you are expecting a baby, or are a current breastfeeding mother, talk with your medical provider, your supervisor, you commander, your first sergeant, any and everyone who has the ability to support you and assist you with your breastfeeding plans. Let everyone know your intention to breastfeed up to a year, or as long as possible. Ask to be excused from duties or TDYs or deployments that could interfere with your breastfeeding even before you have the baby. I know, sometimes even the best laid plans and the supervisors with the best of intentions are overriden by military mission. That is why the policies need to change. Do the best you can under the current guidelines, however, we all need to be fighting for change.
I find it absolutely ridiculous and humiliating to have to explain the intimate details of breastfeeding/breast pumping to senior ranking officials, just so I can feed my baby. The medical community needs to do a better job educating and creating awareness about breastfeeding issues in the military. It shouldn’t be left up to the new mom to explain the benefits and justification to the supervisors and commanders of why she should and needs to be breastfeeding her baby.
Anyone have any advice on where to start to change policy?

By: kellys

kellys — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 01:27:57 +0000

I totally agree that any time breast feeding is worth it. Yes, it will be that much harder to leave, if you have to. But imagine the sweet time you will have before then. And then, if you do have to leave, the baby will still be getting a little part of you for a while after if you are able to store up some milk. Give it a shot. Formula has come a long way, but breastfeeding is so enjoyable. I am looking forward to that part again with my 3rd child and I work as well.

By: Jenny

Jenny — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:31:51 +0000

to answer your title ? – YES! No matter how short the period, whatever mother’s milk you can give your baby will have an impact in his health. Btw, have you heard about that air force captain deployed in afghanistan who regularly ships milk to her baby? here is there story: http://www.gosanangelo.com/news/2008/jan/09/long-journey-for-mothers-milk/

Comments on: Is it Worth it to Nurse for a Short Time?

By: ADAF Momof3

By: kellys

By: Jenny