Breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition for a baby . However, there are many misconceptions prevalent in the society about breastfeeding. Due to these misconceptions, many mothers are confused while breastfeeding. Therefore, it is necessary to clear doubts and misconceptions about breastfeeding by consulting experts. Breastfeeding is very important for providing complete nutrition to the baby, strengthening its immune system, and for its healthy growth and development. Breastfeeding also benefits the mother. Apart from helping the uterus recover after delivery, breastfeeding also helps in reducing the risk of some diseases in the future. However, there are many misconceptions related to breastfeeding, which need to be cleared with the help of experts. (Photo courtesy – istock)
10 common misconceptions about breastfeeding:
Myth 1: Women with small breasts produce less milk.
Fact: Breast size has no direct relationship with breast milk production. The amount of milk a mother produces depends on how often her baby breastfeeds and how effectively the milk is drained from the breast.
Myth 2: If a mother is sick, has a cold or fever, she should stop breastfeeding.
Fact: Breastfeeding can be continued during most common illnesses. Breast milk contains antibodies, which help protect the baby from various infections.
Myth 3: Formula milk is as good as breast milk.
Fact: Breast milk contains antibodies, enzymes, and many important nutrients that cannot be fully replicated in formula milk. If you want to give your baby formula milk, give it only as directed by your doctor.
Myth 4: It is necessary to give water to the baby along with breast milk.
Reality: An exclusively breastfed baby does not need additional water for the first six months. Even if the outside environment is hot, an exclusively breastfed baby does not need to be given any additional water for the first six months.
Myth 5: You should stop breastfeeding when your baby starts teething.
Fact: Teething is not a reason to stop breastfeeding. Most babies can breastfeed well even during teething and gradually learn to avoid breastfeeding while biting.
Myth 6: Breastfeeding mothers should avoid many foods.
Reality: Most mothers can eat a balanced and varied diet that includes fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein-rich foods like legumes and pulses. However, it is advisable to avoid unhealthy fast food and processed foods. In general, breastfeeding mothers do not need to make any major changes to their diet.
Myth 7: If a baby is breastfeeding frequently, the mother’s milk supply is decreasing.
Fact: Frequent breastfeeding is normal and stimulates the mother’s milk production. Frequent breastfeeding is especially beneficial for breast milk production during the baby’s growth spurt.
Myth 8: Pain during breastfeeding is normal.
Reality: You may feel some pain or discomfort when you start breastfeeding. However, if you experience persistent pain after breastfeeding or between breastfeeding sessions, it is possible that your baby is not latching on properly. In such cases, it is important to consult a lactation specialist.
Myth 9: Working mothers cannot breastfeed their babies.
Fact: With proper planning and proper expression and storage of breast milk, many working mothers can successfully continue to breastfeed their babies.
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Myth 10: Breastfeeding should be stopped after the baby is six months old.
Reality: Around six months, babies are started on complementary foods along with breastfeeding. However, on the advice of a doctor, breastfeeding can be continued up to two years or even beyond.