The mixed messages on the Internet can be confusing to new mommies, here are some Breastfeeding Myths And Facts That Every new Mother Should Know:
1. MYTH: Babies naturally know how to breastfeed
FACT: Your baby is born with infant reflexes that can help with breastfeeding but Breastfeeding has to be learned and practiced by both baby and mommy.
2. MYTH: Breastfeeding is easy
FACT: Breastfeeding takes time, patience and practice for both mothers and babies. Breastfeeding is also time intensive, so mothers need space and support at home and work.
3. MYTH: You should wash your nipples before breastfeeding
FACT: The nipples produce a substance that the baby smells and has ‘good bacteria’ that helps to build babies’ own healthy immune system for life. So Washing your nipples before breastfeeding isn’t necessary
4. MYTH: Babies who have been breastfed are clingy.
FACT: All babies are different. Some are clingy and some are not, no matter how they are fed.
5. MYTH: Breastfeeding is painful
FACT: While breastfeeding shouldn’t be painful, it’s common for your breasts and nipples to feel sore and tender for a few days while your body adjusts to nursing.
6. MYTH: If my baby cries, it probably means I’m not making enough milk
FACT: Babies cry to communicate. While they may be hungry, babies also cry for many other reasons
7. MYTH: It will be hard to breastfeed because your breasts are small (or large)
FACT: Breasts of all sizes can make plenty of milk.
8. MYTH: Breastfeeding will prevent you from getting pregnant.
FACT: While breastfeeding does impact your ovulation and fertility, it’s not a guaranteed form of birth control.
9. MYTH: Breastfeeding changes the shape and size of your breast, or reduces sensitivity.
FACT: While pregnancy does somewhat alter the look and feel of your breasts, experts say breastfeeding does not cause any changes beyond that. “This is all pretty much old wives’ tales.”
10. MYTH: You have to wean if you become pregnant while nursing
FACT: The term “wean” refers to the process of getting your baby used to food other than breast milk. Many parents choose to wean if they become pregnant while nursing (and that’s OK!). Continuing to nurse during pregnancy is a valid choice as well.
11. MYTH: You can’t take any medication while breastfeeding
FACT: With a few exceptions, most medications are safe to take while nursing
12. MYTH: Breastfed babies don’t get sick
FACT: Nursed babies do get sick if they are exposed to viruses and other infections. That doesn’t mean that breast milk isn’t protective, though.
13. MYTH: You’ve failed if you supplement with formula while nursing
FACT: Nursing isn’t all or nothing. Many nursing parents need to supplement with formula because they are experiencing low milk supply, they aren’t able to pump enough milk while they are separated from their baby, or they just want or need to stop nursing.