The benefits of breastfeeding.

• Position: Trends And Transitions - Brief Article

Mother and baby can both benefit from breastfeeding. But does that mean breastfeeding should be allowed anywhere? That's the question several state legislatures have been dealing with.

For a mother, breastfeeding can help her return quickly to her pre-pregnancy weight and reduce her risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer and osteoporosis. Breast milk for babies helps prevent infections, allergies and diarrhea resulting in fewer illnesses than formula-fed babies.

Breastfeeding in public, however, remains a controversial issue. Some say there is no reason not to allow breastfeeding in public--it is the mother's right. Others believe breastfeeding should be done in private. Fearing that breastfeeding mothers could be charged with indecency, state legislators have passed legislation to clarify the legality of breastfeeding in public places.

Thirty-two states specifically state that mothers are allowed to breastfeed...