Media Release:

Men and Breastfeeding - The New Frontier

"Blokes, Babies, Breastfeeding" is an Australian first - a fun DVD that takes the subject of
breastfeeding and talks directly to dads.

Made by men, for men, and talking the male language, the DVD is full of bloke humour. It explores facts, tips and the subtleties of breastfeeding while informing dads about how they can help to make breastfeeding manageable, successful and as pleasant as possible for their partner.

"Although many of us blokes don't know it, as dads we have a real role to play in breastfeeding," says Warwick Shanks, creator of the DVD and the Australian concept, Blokes and Babies. "Studies have shown that if males are supportive of breastfeeding, mothers are ten times more likely to do it. So the man's role is absolutely vital."

"I'm aiming to get Australian dads to change their thinking about breastfeeding. I'm telling them that they're allowed to be interested, allowed to be involved and allowed to ask questions."

A father of four, Shanks has a profound passion for the dad's role in breastfeeding and a deep knowledge of the topic. He has presented 'A Male Perspective On Breastfeeding' to a wide range of groups, including the Australian Breastfeeding Association's (ABA) New South Wales State Conference, The NSW Lactation College (in Wollongong and Sydney), and Early Childhood Nurses and Midwives in the Illawarra. He also presents regularly at pre-natal breastfeeding classes, and hosts discussions on adjusting to parenthood with expectant fathers.

He attributes the success of the DVD to its uniquely male focus, complemented with a touch of Aussie larrikin humour. "Blokes Babies Breastfeeding doesn't aim to be a lecture", he says. "It's fun and it's tailored to the male attention span. There's nothing else out there that informs men on this topic in men's terms."

For a bit of fun Blokes Babies Breastfeeding has a father (identity protected) tackle five of the questions new dads are afraid to ask about breastfeeding , 1. How does a breast work?, 2. Does size matter? 3. What is a breast pump?, 4. What about sex?, 5. How does it (breastmilk) taste?

Ideal for the pre-natal group or as a gift for a first time dad, Blokes Babies Breastfeeding is available online. The DVD was produced with support from the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service and all profits from its sale go to Shanks' local ABA group to be used to further promote and support breastfeeding.

For more information or to obtain a copy simply visit www.blokesbabiesbreastfeeding.com.

Read more about Warwick Shanks (author).

Mum Zone Release Date: 21st October 2008

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