Long-term lactivism

[frontierpsych]

I've made up my mind this year to begin to dedicate myself to long-term lactivism. What I mean by that is instead of focusing on moms who choose to use formula, focus on moms who have some interest in breastfeeding.
I will provide encouragement, information, and support.
I will do everything in my power to help these mothers have a positive nursing experience.
My hope is to bring nursing back as a family tradition. For their children to be nursed, and to grow up around nursing, and to choose to nurse their own children.
Can I get some help on this?
Branch out!
I know we all love MDC as our safe place, but we can't make a real difference unless we get out of our comfort zone. Meet a mom, either online or IRL, who is on the fence about breastfeeding. Be there for her as a source of information and support.
I've tried so many approaches to lactivism in the past two years. I've been labeled as a "breastfeeding nazi" (oh how I hate that term) and I know that's not what I want to be. It turns women off to breastfeeding, and is counter-productive.
I'd love some support and help in this. I know we can make a difference.

[mb05]

Yay!!!! Wonderful advice... Wonderful thoughts! I'm with ya! I started a breastfeeding listserve to help support other breastfeeding moms through encouragement, education and friendship. I think we should start by educating our doctors, peds, etc.

Dr. Jack Newman suggested sending out, for instance, one piece of information on a single sheet of paper (color paper for more noticeabilty) out to a doctor, etc. every week. This way, your info isn't lost in the shuffle with the huge amounts of mail they receive every day and yet they might possibly learn something that will help a breastfeeding mom.

For instance, a letter could say: "X" medication is safe for breastfeeding mothers to take..."

No mass emails or form letters, either. Individual ones.

[delphiniumpansy]

I volunteer for a pro breastfeeding organization that offers lactation consultants for low cost or through insurance and many pro breastfeeding items in its stores as well as a breastfeeding-friendly for moms to hang out and get bfing help. That is one way to help.