Our Who Code Policy
International criticism of the unethical marketing practices by the infant formula industry led to the development of the World Health Organization’s International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes in 1981, also known as the “Who Code”. This code is designed to curb the marketing of infant formulas and related products in order to protect breastfeeding.
A portion of The WHO Code says there should be absolutely no promotion of breast milk substitutes, bottles, and artificial nipples to the general public. To fully comply with this code, New Mommy Media would be limited in how we discuss these topics and the companies we choose to promote on our shows. After careful consideration, we have determined we will not be able to fully comply with this code because we believe some parts are not in the best interest of our listeners.
We understand complete WHO Code compliance may be important to guests on our shows, and we respect that. However, it’s important for our listeners to have unfiltered information to further their breastfeeding relationship with their children. So, we are doing our best to balance the needs of both parties. To do this, we rely on the following principles when it comes to choosing our episode topics and the companies/products we promote on our shows.
We believe…
- Breastfeeding your baby is best because it provides customized nutrients and antibodies and it promotes bonding between mother and baby. But breastfeeding is not always possible. In this case, we encourage moms to supplement by pumping their own breast milk or receiving donor milk. Formula may be needed when breast milk is not available, and mothers should never be shunned or criticized for choosing options they believe are in the best interest of their families.
- Ideally, babies should receive breast milk exclusively for the first six months, this is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Hopefully, moms are able to continue providing breast milk for at least one year. Weaning should probably take place before their child’s first year of college.
- Moms need detailed information about breast pumps, bottles, and nipples- especially moms returning to work or spending extended time away from their babies. By educating moms about their options, we can help moms provide breast milk to their babies for as long as possible.
- No bottle or artificial nipple is similar, equal, or better than the breast. If a product suggests otherwise, then they’re wrong. We only promote products and companies we believe encourage a mom’s ability to provide breast milk to her baby.
- Pacifiers can be a helpful tool for moms encouraging their babies to self-soothe. However, whenever possible, we encourage moms planning to breastfeed to use them after a solid breastfeeding relationship has been established.
- You are not a bad mom if you need an alternative to breastfeeding your baby. We are not here to judge you. If your goal is to provide breast milk to your baby, then we want to support and empower you on your journey. Every drop of breast milk counts!