Common Breastfeeding Myths Debunked

Breastfeeding is one of the easiest and best ways to make sure that your new baby gets all of the nutrients he/she needs.  Plus it offers a natural immunity against illness (including some adult cancers), ear infections and even allergies that formula simply can not.  Still, many new mothers don’t even consider breastfeeding.  Why?  Far too often the answer to that question is because they mistakenly believe many of the myths about breastfeeding that circulate among the new mother crowd.

Before making the all-important decision whether to breast or bottle feed, be sure to find out the real answers to your breastfeeding questions.  To make your search easier, we’ve compiled a list of the most common breastfeeding myths – complete with the right answers:

Myth # 1:  I Don’t Make Enough Milk.

Fact:      The fact is, the majority of new mothers DO make enough milk for their newborn.  This myth has become rampant partially due to a misconception about milk production in the first 2-3 days after birth. Since a woman’s milk doesn’t actually come in until her baby is several days old, many believe that the baby is not getting sufficient nutrition.  This is absolutely not true!  For the first 2-3 days after birth a mother’s body produces an all-important substance called colostrum, which is rich in proteins, vitamins and infection fighting agents that your baby’ needs to build a strong immune system.   Although produced in smaller amounts than milk, it truly is enough for the baby until actual milk production kicks in around day three.   Remember, breastfed babies digest more quickly; therefore they must be fed more often (about every 90 minutes vs. 4 hours for formula fed babies).  The key to detecting whether or not a baby is getting enough milk (or colostrum) is whether or not they are continuing to have wet diapers.  Even a drop or two of urine or stool is sufficient output as long as it is happening 8-12 times per day.  Of course, if you are concerned about your milk production, consult a lactation consultant immediately.

Myth # 2:   There is no way to know how much breastmilk a baby is getting

Fact:  While you may not be able to measure the exact number of ounces of milk that your baby takes in at a feeding session, there are ways to know that he/she is getting what it needs.  The first is to check their feeding habits.  Is the baby sucking, pausing, and swallowing at the breast for several minutes before taking a quick break?  If so, they are taking in milk.  If your baby is fussy, keeps popping off and crying or shows other signs of distress you may be experiencing a problem with latching on, which could inhibit milk release.  Another thing to watch for is milk let down.  Can you actually feel your milk letting down after a few minutes of baby suckling?  If so, you know that you are producing proper amounts.  Finally, is your baby satisfied after each feeding?  Does your baby cal down, get drowsy, fall asleep?  If so, he/she has had his fill for the moment.  Just because a baby awakens an hour or so later for more does not mean that they are not getting enough, it simply means that they have digested their previous meal and are ready for more.

Myth # 3:  A breastfeeding mother has to watch everything she eats and drinks.
Fact:  This is simply not true.  While it is important to eat a well balanced diet in order to have the energy to take care of your baby and produce the milk needed for each feeding, there is no reason why you can’t enjoy all of your favorite foods.  Although some mothers have reported that certain foods or ingredients may affect their baby’s mood or even cause some gassiness, this is unusual and is generally discovered quickly.  For instance, if after drinking an espresso, you notice your baby becoming agitated or cranky, you may want to consider cutting back on caffeine, or at least pumping and dumping about an hour after indulging in a high-caffeine drink.  Generally speaking, however, what you eat has little affect on your baby.

Myth # 4:  Breastfeeding babies need supplemental milk or formula after 6 months

Fact:   This is absolutely not true!  Even after a baby begins eating solids, or has been introduced to cow’s milk at one year of age, breast milk still offers more nutritional value than other foods being eaten.  As a matter of fact, older babies may benefit even more from breastmilk since they are often lack essential vitamins and minerals as they learn to eat table foods in the right amounts.

Myth # 5:  Breastfeeding Hurts
Fact:  While nipple soreness is common in the first week or so, while both you and baby learn this new technique, chronic or overwhelming pain should be looked at.  Oftentimes painful or cracked nipples are due to improper latching or even a yeast infection which should be treated as soon as possible.

Myth # 6:  Breastfeeding ties a mother down.

Fact:  This may be one of the biggest reasons why many women fail to give breastfeeding an honest try.  The fact is, breastfeeding is often easier for many women, allowing them to feed their babies whenever, and whereever they are.  No need to worry about getting back home in two hours in order to mix and heat a bottle.  Just pick up baby and go.  You’re always ready for a feeding.  And, with today’s high-powered pumps, many mothers find the ease of pumping and freezing milk a great way to get away when needed.  Some mother’s even allow dads to give baby a bottle of breastmilk at night to give them a chance to sleep more.

Myth #7:  Mothers can’t breastfeed if they’re sick

Fact:  The antibodies in mother’s milk often protects babies from catching any virus making its way through the home, even when the mother is experiencing symptoms.  The truth is, to stop breastfeeding when you’re sick may actually doom your baby to catching whatever it is you have since you will stop giving them the germ fighting antibodies they need to stay well.

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