Breastfeeding Myths BUSTED

Myth:  You have to drink milk to make milk

Fact:  You do not need to drink milk to make milk. Your body works on the simple principal of supply and demand, or really demand and supply. When the baby takes the milk out, the body replenishes. The more you nurse or pump the more milk your body will produce.

Myth: You don’t have enough milk until day three when your milk comes in

Fact: Trust your body. Trust the process. Your first milk, called colostrum, is produced in a limited quantity, but it’s perfectly balanced for baby’s belly.

Myth: The first milk colostrum is all baby needs. You don’t need to breastfeed longer than a few days

Fact: Breastmilk contains vital cells that fight off bacteria and viruses while you nurse. Also, breastfeeding has many other important health benefits for your baby.  The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed for about the first 6 months with continued breastfeeding along with introducing appropriate complementary foods for 1 year or longer.

Myth: If baby nurses longer than 15 minutes, you’re their pacifier

Fact: Babies breastfeed for more than milk. They come for thirst, hunger, love and comfort. Sucking is a positive response and promotes milk production.

Myth: Feeding on demand creates a demanding child

Fact: Feeding your baby when they’re hungry and holding them when they’re upset is precisely what mom should do. The number of feedings your baby needs each day depends on your milk storage capacity. A mother with a large storage capacity can feed her baby less times each day. Your baby will let you know how much they need. Remember, watch for feeding cues!

Myth: Women with small or large breasts don’t make enough milk

Fact: Your breast size doesn’t come into play when it comes to milk production, even though they do get bigger once baby comes! Fatty tissue determines breast size. Milk is made in the ducts, not from the fatty tissue.

Myth: Breastfeeding always hurts

Fact: In the first two weeks, you may feel some pain in the first 30 seconds of feeding. If you’re experiencing more, your latch should be checked by a lactation consultant. Sometimes simple adjustments to latch and positioning can eliminate pain.

Myth: Eating gassy foods gives your baby gas

Fact: Your breast milk is made from your blood. We get gas when we try to digest the fiber in food like broccoli and cabbage. Since your baby doesn’t ingest the fiber, they won’t experience the gas from those foods. Babies can be gassy, but don’t blame the beans. And remember, the healthiest foods for us are often the gas producers.

Got more myths we can help bust or any advice / feedback on breastfeeding to share? Post any questions or comments you may have below.

To speak with or to schedule an appointment with a lactation consultant, reach out to the Breastfeeding Resource Center.