Need help with visitation/BF for a friend!

[ared1]

I have a friend in the throes of a divorce and the XDH and XMIL are anti nursing. She is trying to work visitation around a nursing schedule. She does not supplement or pump and feels she shouldn't have to just because of visitation (I agree) what does she need to take to the judge?? THe baby is just about 3 mos old. THe MIL and DH will push for formula. Can you all help?

[Lil'M]

Here is some info from Kathy Dettwyler about extended nursing that also gives basics about the importance of breastfeeding:

http://www.kathydettwyler.org/detletter.htm

Here is info from the La Leche League website on breastfeeding and the law:

http://www.lalecheleague.org/LawMain.html

Hope that is helpful! You are a great friend and she is fortunate to have your support!

[soccerchic21]

Originally Posted by ared1

I have a friend in the throes of a divorce and the XDH and XMIL are anti nursing. She is trying to work visitation around a nursing schedule. She does not supplement or pump and feels she shouldn't have to just because of visitation (I agree) what does she need to take to the judge?? THe baby is just about 3 mos old. THe MIL and DH will push for formula. Can you all help?

I have no personal experience with this but at the very least she should get a note from her ped recomending only breastmilk until at least 6 months. She will probably have to pump sometime I would think. But my personal opinion is that the baby should not be away from it's mom overnight. Hopefully she gets a sympathetic judge.

Is it possible that she can say her child has allergies to dairy? or soy? That way for sure all the baby can get is breastmilk.

[mama24-7]

I went to a LLL conference last year and to a session by a lawyer in Philadelphia who is a divorce lawyer. She said that basically, it depends on the judge. Some feel BF is important, others feel that both parents have equal rights to their child regardless of feeding method.

I'd suggest your friend call LLL for the phone numbers of the leaders in her area who know about legal stuff.

I also like the idea of getting a note from the ped. WHat does her lawyer say?

Good luck & your friend is lucky to have you.