Hospital distribution of formula discharge bags: Opinions of texas pediatricians

Objective: Exclusive breastfeeding is the gold standard for infant nutrition in the first 6 months of life. Despite this, significant obstacles prevent breastfeeding mothers from achieving this goal. The distribution of formula company-sponsored gift bags has been identified as one factor that negatively impacts breastfeeding exclusivity and duration. Methods: The Texas Pediatric Society surveyed its members regarding their opinions about the distribution of formula company-sponsored gift bags. Results: Of the survey respondents, 55 favored the elimination of gift bags for breastfeeding mothers, but only 24 were in favor of legislation prohibiting the distribution of gift bags. Conclusions: Grassroots advocacy has been very successful in persuading hospitals to eliminate formula company-sponsored gift bags. Physicians who would like to end the practice of distributing these bags should work with their local hospitals to develop alternatives that take into account the best interests of patients and hospitals. These efforts may be more successful than working to legislate the elimination of formula company-sponsored gift bags.