The first article in this series provided a general introduction to breast-feeding and to the views of La Leche League, a support group that provides free counseling and holds regular meetings on issues related to breast-feeding. This article focuses on the Oketani massage method, which helps breast-feeding women gain confidence and overcome difficulties throughout the breast-feeding experience.
Although her massage method is little known in the West, Sotomi Oketani's books and the clinics using her techniques have been a major influence on breast-feeding practices in Japan since the end of World War II. Now in her 80s, Oketani has retired, leaving a legacy of midwives and a school that certifies people in her pioneering methods.
While working as a midwife in war-torn Manchuria during World War II, the death of countless babies she'd brought into the world forced Oketani to recognize that having quality breast milk to feed newborns was no luxury -- it was a life-saving measure.