AN UPDATE ON BREAST-FEEDING

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WHEN TO WEAN

As soon as the baby is introduced to anything other than breast milk, the weaning process has begun. It is best to do this slowly, and, as with solid foods, let the baby tell you when he or she is ready to "leave home." (Remember—release, not reject.) Contrary to popular belief, a child who is weaned at a late age is not any more dependent than a child weaned earlier. In fact, the late nurser may be more independent because the choice to break away from Mom was his or her own. So, don't let yourself be influenced by the behavior or reaction of other mothers—this should be a decision between you and your child.

Breast milk is species-specific. It has everything in it that the baby needs, in the right amounts. It fulfills both physical and emotional needs. It is not habit-forming, and all children wean themselves when they have had enough.

Try it. You, and yours, will like it.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Dr. Wootan offers a fine seminar for parents on basic pediatrics. The classes teach parents how to reduce their medical bills, relate to a doctor on a more equal level, handle emergency situations, and confidently care for a sick child. For specific information, write to George Wotan, M.D., Box 101 K, RD 7, Kingston, NY 12401.

For more information about breast-feeding—even in special cases—MOTHER suggests you consult the following:

The Complete Book of Breastfeeding, by Marvin S. Eiger, M.D., and Sally Wendkos Olds ($4.95 plus $1.00 shipping and handling from Workman Publishing Co., 1 W. 39th St., New York, NY 10018).

Parents Book of Breast Feeding, by Susan Flamholtz Trien ($2.95 plus $1.00 shipping and handling from Random House, Inc., 400 Hahn Rd., Westminster, MD 21157).

The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, by La Leche League International ($9.95 plus $1.00 shipping and handling from La Leche League International, 9616 Minneapolis Ave., Franklin Park, II 60131).

You Can Breastfeed Your Baby ... Even in Special Situations, by Dorothy Patricia Brewster ($12.95 plus $2.00 shipping and handling from Rodale Press, Book Division, 33 E. Minor St., Emmaus, PA 18049).

Put Nursing Fears to Rest

Does the thought of nursing give you butterflies? If so, here are some helpful hints.
The first two or three weeks of breastfeeding can be very difficult for a new mother, but take a deep breath... and relax! It is very important to get plenty of R and R during the nursing period, as this will stimulate the let-down reflex—the squeezing of milk from the alveoli. Fear, anxiety, confusion, or fatigue can hamper this reaction, so find a comfortable, tension-free spot to nurse.

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