I would like to applaud the author’s recognition of the social constraints that make this situation such a problem. THe author states, “This has led to a perplexing conundrum. Modern Western women live, for the most part, in cultures that are not supportive of their reproductive work, and that are not organized to allow women to combine their productive and reproductive work. We make it overly difficult.” To me, this is the major issue. Until we provide women with a culture that is supportive of both reproductive and “productive” work, then we have not addressed the real issue. Providing information about the health consequences of bottle feeding are not helpful unless coupled with an effort to change the social and environmental context.

Of course women should have the option to breastfeed (and because of the inherent benefits should be encouraged to do so). But if that option comes at the sacrifice of economic and professional autonomy and success, then we have failed as champions of women’s health and reproductive freedom. We need not list the negative health consequences of poverty and the historical submission of women by male partners- this has already been heavily documented.

Instead, we should provide women with real solutions. This requires all of us working together- the ecologists, the anthropologists, the public health specialists, legislators, feminists, and MEN. My major criticism of this article is the absence of men in the discourse. Women are being forced to choose between breastfeeding and attending work- but this is a social limitation not a biological one. Where are the fathers of these children, where are the male champions in the workforce demanding improved maternal and paternal benefits, where are the outraged partners fighting for lactation rooms?

If we are going to make progress, we need to stand together. This needs to be a dialogue about power and oppression, and it needs to include specific steps for reaching gender equality and, ultimately, improved health for all.

That decision has, however, put me at a disadvantage for building my career outside of childrearing. I did know this going into motherhood and often struggled with this challenge and what it would mean for my financial future as well as my children’s points of reference about the roles of men and women in our culture. For this reason I believe it is imperative to continue this dialogue to educate and bring balance to our cultural assumptions and misperceptions about women’s roles and how their reproductive lives are influenced within this culture/society. Education is, as always, the path to better understanding.

Thank you, Katherine, for keeping this subject open and hopefully providing clarity to those who do not understand our motives behind making such decisions. I can only hope that our culture will continue to move toward acceptance and a better understanding of the suggestions outlined in your piece here.