I am a pediatrician (male, for the record) who has supported thousands of mothers in their breast-feeding decisions. I have guarded the milk intake and manner of premature babies and actively supported pumping for the mother of a very premature infant. I have provided, when medically feasible, breast milk feeding with simultaneous tube formula supplementation if necessary. And I have driven two hours upon the immediate request of my breast-feeding daughter, five days after my grandson was born, to get her to a lactation consultant. As a result, she nursed her child for over 2 years.
Unfortunately, even if your intentions were good, you have created a portrait of nursing which is offensively arrogant and unrealistic for most mothers. It is these women who are being awkwardly challenged by the statement “Are You Mom Enough?” The obvious truth — much more apparent than the partially viewed breast of this young woman — is that you are using a shocking cover for commercial value. The photo is not obscene in the pornographic sense of the word. However, your blatant disregard of the sensibilities of many individuals, and your arrogance in doing this, is both repulsive and exploitative of what should be a private, precious and intimate bonding experience for a mother.
Ronald S. Bashian, M.D., Arlington, Virginia