Problem?

[Raine822]

I just recently had my 2nd daughter. Once again at the hospital I was given 2 "breastfeeding supply bags" - one from enfimal and one from simalic. Both of the bags contained formula. One had the ready-to-use bottles. When I was breastfeeding the first time it was tempting to just grab the bottle when frustration set in. It seems to me they are trying to make mothers switch to the formula whenever possible. The hospital I use encourages breastfeeding whenever possible. Any ideas on why they do this? Does anyone know if there is any organization trying to stop this?

I also had both companies get my information and sent more and more formula in the mail.

[MeepyCat]

I am *sure* that there are organizations trying to stop this, but I don't know which organizations. Sorry. I am sure someone better informed will come by, because you are so definitely asking in the right place.

You're dead on as to the intention of that marketing move. I wonder if it would be worthwhile for you to write a letter to the head of obstetrics at the hospital regarding your objection to receiving the marketing materials, the negative effects of these things on new mother's breast feeding efforts, and your objection to having your personal info sold to formula companies.

Congratulations on the new baby and welcome.

[amydiane]

Congrats on your new baby!

Check out http://banthebags.org/ - they are trying to do just that.

From what I understand, the hospitals get kickbacks from the formula companies to hand out their brand of formula, knowing that it is very tempting if you have it right there and are struggling. And then if you end up supplementing or switching to formula (which you're more likely to do if you get the free sample), you're more likely to stick with their brand. Hospitals apparently either don't care as long as they get their freebies, or they might think that a free sample is harmless. It isn't.

[Raine822]

Thank you. The link was great-just what I was looking for. It had tons of info on what I suspected. I received 2 bags designed for "breastfeeding" and found neither helpful.

[evlu]

Originally Posted by amydiane

From what I understand, the hospitals get kickbacks from the formula companies to hand out their brand of formula

This is correct. Generally the formula companies agree to supply all the formula, bottles, and nipples (and other feeding supplies) the hospital uses as long as the hospital hands out the "gift bags" to all the mothers who give birth there. In this day and age, when drug company freebies to doctors have come under increasing scrutiny and subject to more and more constraints, it boggles my mind that hospitals can convince themselves that this marketing arrangement is even remotely ethical -- but the lure of "free" formula supplies is too strong.

And the formula companies know what they're doing -- even if there is no free formula in the "gift bags", they still decrease the duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding. So the companies get a lot of bang for their buck with these arrangements with the hospitals.

Just a clarification -- I don't believe the hospitals generally sell mothers' personal information to the formula companies -- that would be a HIPAA violation and subject to harsh penalties. It is my understanding that the formula companies just have a standing agreement that the hospital will hand out the "gift bags" to all the mothers.

[proudmomof4]

Yes, this is frustrating - and they sure know what they're doing. If you can muster up the energy I think a letter to the head of the maternity and / or obstetric ward would be good.

[Raine822]

I like the suggestions. I am going to write a letter and also talk to my ob/gyns. They are huge supporters of breastfeeding and also the main/largest group that delivers at that hospital so they will have some pull.

Also, I don't beleive the hospital sold the personal info but the formula companies have ways to get it. Gift registries don't have hippa ect. The doctors also hand out info on getting free stuff-you have to mail in a postcard with personal info ( I never sent them in but someone could have) So many ways...