- Breastfeeding Myth #1: You can’t breastfeed with small boobs.
- Breastfeeding Myth #2: Breast milk isn’t enough for my baby, and infant formula has more nutrients.
- Breastfeeding Myth #3: I need to supplement with formula until my milk comes in.
- Breastfeeding Myth #4: I need to drink milk to produce breast milk.
- Breastfeeding Myth #5: Breastfeeding will hurt and that is normal.
- Breastfeeding Myth #6: I need to pump and dump if I drink coffee or alcohol.
- Breastfeeding Myth #7: Parents can get more sleep by adding baby cereal into a bottle instead of breastfeeding.
- Breastfeeding Myth #8: Never wake a sleeping baby to feed, they will wake up when they’re hungry.
To all the new mothers and mothers-to-be: what is holding you back from breastfeeding your little one?
Far too often do new mothers have to sift through all the do and don’ts of breastfeeding, myths, and misinformation that have no accurate scientific basis. People around you, your co-workers, your hairdresser, or your mother-in-law, can’t help but insert their opinions and advice surrounding motherhood and childbirth. But what is the truth about breastfeeding?
To help you navigate breastfeeding and motherhood with more certainty, here are the truths behind all the common breastfeeding myths out there.
Breastfeeding Myth #1: You can’t breastfeed with small boobs.
Believe it or not, the size of your breasts does not determine how much milk you can produce! Milk supply varies depending on your hormones, breastfeeding frequency, and how well your baby is able to breastfeed.
The one thing that breast size affects is how much milk your breasts can hold before you start to feel too full and uncomfortable. Larger breasts may be able to hold a larger volume of milk compared to smaller breasts, which only means that smaller breasts need to empty their breasts more frequently. Smaller breasts can still produce the same amount, if not more, compared to their larger counterparts!
Breastfeeding Myth #2: Breast milk isn’t enough for my baby, and infant formula has more nutrients.
Guess what, your breast milk is really all your baby needs!
Yes, baby formula is indeed fortified with lots of nutrients, but the breast milk that you provide and supply is unique to you and your little one. There is an adequate amount of calories, fat, and protein in your breast milk. Additionally, the immunity you build in your surroundings can be passed on to your baby through breast milk, something that your baby cannot get from baby formula.
Breastfeeding Myth #3: I need to supplement with formula until my milk comes in.
In the first few days after birth, you’ll notice only very small amounts of thick milk coming from your breasts, known as colostrum. Colostrum is highly concentrated and extremely nutrient-dense, and is all that your newborn baby needs to kick start their immunity and biological development.
Parents typically describe their milk “coming in” a few days later after delivery, which is when you start seeing more milk. Babies are actually not born hungry and their stomachs are very, very small. The small amount of colostrum that is produced in the early days goes a long way for a healthy newborn! Keep in mind that formulas should only be given if there is a medical need after birth.
Breastfeeding Myth #4: I need to drink milk to produce breast milk.
You do not need to drink milk in order to produce milk! Indeed, milk provides a good source of calcium, but it is not a magic potion that helps you produce more milk. However, it is important to stay hydrated and maintain a healthy nutritious diet while breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Myth #5: Breastfeeding will hurt and that is normal.
It is common for your breasts and nipples to feel tender and sore, especially if you are brand new to breastfeeding. Your breasts have never breastfed before and this is their physical response.
However, breastfeeding should not hurt in the long run and should be a pleasant experience for both you and your little one! If you are experiencing pain, it is crucial you reach out to a lactation consultant for an assessment.
Breastfeeding Myth #6: I need to pump and dump if I drink coffee or alcohol.
There is no need to throw out your precious breast milk for coffee or alcohol!
It is true that both caffeine and alcohol can be passed along to your baby through breast milk. Some babies may be more sensitive to caffeine than others – monitor your baby for symptoms such as increased fussiness, gassiness, or difficulty staying asleep.
If you are having alcohol, wait 2 hours per drink, and you can breastfeed as usual! More information here from the CDC.
One scenario where pump and dump might be encouraged is when you are taking medication that is not safe to be passed along to your little one. However, most medications are safe and compatible with breastfeeding! If in doubt, consult your lactation consultant, doctor, and/or pharmacist about best practices for your unique needs.
Breastfeeding Myth #7: Parents can get more sleep by adding baby cereal into a bottle instead of breastfeeding.
Introducing baby cereal before babies are ready can pose a dangerous risk of choking. Baby cereal should not be added into milk bottles unless directed by a professional.
Keep in mind that babies waking up about 4-5 times throughout the night is normal, especially in the first few months to 1 year. This is their way of telling you they need attention or are hungry, or simply just because they got stuck in a certain position when rolling over!
Breastfeeding Myth #8: Never wake a sleeping baby to feed, they will wake up when they’re hungry.
Not all babies wake up when they are hungry! If you have a newborn, make sure to feed at least every 2-3 hours. When newborns are not eating enough, they actually become sleepier in order to conserve their energy.
Hearing these myths day in and day out can be confusing, as long as you are making well-informed and safe decisions, feel empowered to do what is best for your little one and your family. Make sure to speak to a lactation consultant when in doubt!
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