Protecting Breast-feeding: Family physicians' role.

Many mothers express a desire to breast-feed but are unable to initiate successful lactation, overcome minor difficulties, or maintain an adequate milk supply due to hospital routines and lack of appropriate advice from health care professionals. "Doulas" were traditional female assistants who helped mothers breast-feed. Physicians must assume this role and promote breast-feeding prenatally, protect it in hospital, and support it postnatally. This will empower mothers to breast-feed for as long as they wish and will improve the health and nutritional status of Canadian children.