Myths About Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful act of nourishing a newborn, providing them with essential nutrients and antibodies to support their growth and development. Despite its numerous benefits, breastfeeding is often surrounded by misconceptions and myths that can discourage new mothers from choosing this incredible bonding experience for themselves and their babies. In this blog post, we will bust some of the most common breastfeeding myths and give you the facts you need to know.

Myth 1: Breastfeeding is Easy

Breastfeeding may be natural, but it is not always easy.

Reality: Many mothers need practical support with positioning their baby for breastfeeding and making sure their baby is correctly attached to the breast. Breastfeeding takes time and practice for both mothers and babies. Breastfeeding is also time intensive, so mothers need space and support at home and work.

Myth 2: The Colostrum Or “First Milk” is Dirty

The myth states that women should not feed their baby the first milk (also known as the colostrum) as it is too dirty and will be unhealthy for the baby.

Reality: In reality the colostrums is one of the best things that you can give your baby. The sooner you begin to breastfeed your baby the more nutritional benefit your baby will acquire from it. Breastfeeding is important to your baby’s health, including the colostrum. Read our detailed blog Colostrum, the Liquid Gold: Baby’s First Vaccine

Myth 3: It’s Usual For Breastfeeding to Hurt

One of the most common misconceptions about breastfeeding is that it is inherently painful.

Reality: Some mothers may experience discomfort in the early days of breastfeeding as they and their baby learn to latch properly, this pain is usually temporary. Pain is often a sign of an improper latch, which can be resolved with the help of a lactation consultant or a knowledgeable healthcare professional.

Myth 4: Wash Your Nipples Before Breastfeeding

Another common misconception is that you should wash your nipples before breastfeeding.

Reality: Washing your nipples before breastfeeding isn’t necessary. When babies are born, they are already very familiar with their own mother’s smells and sounds. The nipples produce a substance that the baby smells and has ‘good bacteria’ that helps to build babies’ own healthy immune system for life.

Myth 5: Separate a Newborn and Mother to let the mother Rest

Reality: Doctors, nurses and midwives often encourage the practice of ‘skin-to-skin’ – also known as kangaroo mother care – immediately after birth. The first 60 minutes of a baby’s life, is often referred as “The Golden Hour”.

Myth 6: Many Mothers can’t produce enough Milk

This is one of the most common misconception among mothers and they complain that they do not produce sufficient milk.

Reality: Almost all mothers produce the right amount of milk for their babies. Breastmilk production is determined by how well the baby is latched on to the breast, the frequency of breastfeeding and how well the baby is removing milk with each feeding.

Myth 7: You shouldn’t Breastfeed if you’re Sick

Reality: Depending on the kind of illness, mothers can usually continue breastfeeding when they’re sick. You need to make sure you get the right treatment, and to rest, eat and drink well. In many cases, the antibodies your body makes to treat your disease or illness will pass on to your baby, building his or her own defences.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding is a remarkable journey that offers countless benefits to both mother and baby. By dispelling these myths, we hope to empower and support mothers to make informed choices about breastfeeding. Every mother’s breastfeeding journey is unique, and it’s essential to provide them with the knowledge and encouragement they need to make the best decision for themselves and their little ones. Let us celebrate the beauty of breastfeeding and work towards building a more understanding and accepting world for all mothers.

Source: UNICEF