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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released results from a national survey of US maternity centers showing that 70 percent of birth facilities continue to market formula to new mothers, undermining health recommendations. In an editorial note accompanying the study, published in the journal “Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report,” the authors comment:

Facilities should consider discontinuing these practices to provide more positive influences on breastfeeding initiation and duration.

For more information on mPINC, read the press release from the Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition.

Did your hospital’s postpartum unit pitch pricey infant formula? If you’re a nursing mom who got an unasked-for formula marketing bag, write a letter voicing your disapproval. Hospitals need to know that moms do not appreciate sales pitches in the hours after childbirth. Use our sample letter to get started. Read more »

As of May 2006, leaders at 11 of the 52 maternity hospitals in Massachusetts had put mothers and babies ahead of formula company profits. The state’s report card lists births, breastfeeding rates, and bag policies statewide. Read more »

By Alison Stuebe, MD

What’s in a bag?

For years, hospitals have distributed “gift” bags to new mothers, courtesy of the drug companies that sell baby formula. Over the years, bag styles have changed, from pastel bunnies to sleek briefcase black. What hasn’t changed is the strategy: big formula companies are using hospitals to promote their product to new mothers. Read more »

80% of baby formula sold in the United States comes from major pharmaceutical companies. Read more »

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About Our Ad:

Our ad focuses on formula marketing as a consumer issue, and part of a bigger pattern of unethical marketing techniques from the pharmaceutical industry. In this sense, we can show our leaders that this practice affects all citizens, and is not just an issue about breastfeeding. Read more »

Q. What does the pharmaceutical industry have to do with baby formula?

A. About 80% of baby formula in the US is sold by pharmaceutical companies.

Q. Does the ban mean there would be no formula in hospitals?

A. : No. The hospitals will still provide formula to mothers who do not want to breastfeed. Read more »