Irish doctors support calls to ban baby formula ads

Do you think the ads should be banned?

Irish doctors have called for baby formula ads to be banned. The Irish College of General Practitioners has publicly supported the move. A proposal has been made to the Seanad to end baby formula ads online. The doctors believe these adverts are having an impact on breastfeeding rates in Ireland. They believe the adverts, "undermine women’s confidence in their ability to breastfeed successfully". Only 10% of babies in Ireland are exclusively breastfed in the first six months of their lives. The global average is 38%, but is banning baby formula adverts really going to change this? Many mums have stressed that breastfeeding is not as easy and 'natural' as people think it is. Others have said there isn't enough information for new mothers. The support and education aren't there when it comes to breastfeeding. Banning formula ads isn't going to help if these areas continue to be neglected. Besides isn't feeding baby what matters most? One mum tweeted, "Not everyone wants/can breastfeed. It can be excruciatingly painful and give rise to conditions like mastitis." Another stressed that it is each individual mother's choice. One suggested that breastfeeding is a healthier option. However, another asked: "How is breast best if someone lives on junk food and alcohol?" "Fed is best," one simply stated. Breastfeeding may be a more sustainable and cheaper option, but there are many benefits to baby formula too. Baby formula is more flexible and convenient. Other loved ones can also feed the baby, which helps strengthen their bond. What do you think? Will banning baby formula ads online make a difference? Or will it only cause more harm than good?