UNICEF Debunks 14 Common Myths About Breastfeeding
- Myth: Breastfeeding is Easy
It’s a common belief that breastfeeding should come naturally and without difficulty. In reality, while babies are born with the instinct to seek out their mother’s breast, many mothers require practical support to position their baby correctly and ensure proper attachment.
Breastfeeding is a skill that takes time to develop, and both mothers and babies need practice. Furthermore, breastfeeding can be time-consuming, so it’s crucial for mothers to receive adequate support at home and work.
- Myth: Sore Nipples are Inevitable
Many new mothers experience discomfort in the early days of breastfeeding. However, sore nipples are not an unavoidable part of breastfeeding.
Proper support with positioning and attachment can help prevent this issue. If a mother encounters problems like sore nipples, seeking assistance from a lactation consultant or skilled professional can be beneficial in resolving these challenges.
- Myth: You Must Wash Your Nipples Before Breastfeeding
Some believe that washing nipples before breastfeeding is necessary. This is not the case. Newborns are already familiar with their mother’s scent and sounds.
Nipples produce natural oils and ‘good bacteria’ that help build the baby’s immune system. Therefore, washing nipples is not required and can actually remove these protective substances.
- Myth: Newborns and Mothers Should be Separated for the Mother’s Rest
There is a misconception that separating the mother and newborn will allow the mother to rest. On the contrary, immediate skin-to-skin contact, or kangaroo care, right after birth is highly beneficial.
This practice helps the baby find and attach to the breast and supports the initiation of breastfeeding. If the mother is unable to practice this, a partner or family member can assist.
- Myth: You Should Only Eat Plain Food While Breastfeeding
Contrary to this myth, breastfeeding mothers need a balanced diet just like everyone else. Babies are exposed to their mother’s food preferences even before birth.
If a mother notices that her baby reacts negatively to a certain food, it is advisable to consult a specialist, but there is generally no need to restrict diet to plain foods.
- Myth: Exercise Will Affect the Taste of Your Milk
Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and is beneficial for breastfeeding mothers as well. There is no evidence suggesting that exercise alters the taste of breast milk.
Maintaining physical activity can contribute to overall health without affecting milk quality.
- Myth: You Must Breastfeed Immediately or Not at All
Starting breastfeeding within the first hour after birth is ideal because a baby’s reflexes are strongest during this period. If you cannot start breastfeeding right away, do it as soon as possible.
Frequent skin-to-skin contact and seeking help from a lactation consultant can support successful breastfeeding initiation.
- Myth: Formula Feeding Means You Can’t Breastfeed
It’s possible to use formula occasionally while continuing to breastfeed. Mothers should seek unbiased information about formula and other breast milk substitutes.
To maintain milk production, offer the breast to your baby as often as possible. Consulting a lactation specialist can help create a plan that works best for continuing breastfeeding.
- Myth: Many Mothers Don’t Produce Enough Milk
Almost all mothers produce an adequate amount of milk for their babies. Milk production depends on how well the baby is latched, the frequency of breastfeeding, and the baby’s ability to remove milk.
Breastfeeding requires support from health care providers, home assistance, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Myth: You Shouldn’t Breastfeed If You’re Sick
Depending on the illness, many mothers can continue breastfeeding while sick. It’s essential to get appropriate treatment and maintain good nutrition and hydration.
In many cases, the antibodies produced to fight illness are passed to the baby, helping to build their immunity.
- Myth: You Can’t Take Medication While Breastfeeding
It is important to inform your doctor that you are breastfeeding and to follow the instructions for any medications. Some medications may need to be taken at specific times or in alternative forms. Always consult the baby’s doctor about any medications you are taking.
- Myth: Breastfed Babies are Clingy
The perception that breastfed babies are clingy is unfounded. Babies vary in temperament regardless of how they are fed.
Breastfeeding not only provides optimal nutrition but also enhances bonding and supports brain development. The increased physical closeness from breastfeeding contributes to this bond.
- Myth: Weaning is Harder After a Year
There is no evidence that weaning is more difficult after a year of breastfeeding. In fact, breastfeeding up to two years offers benefits for both mother and child. Each mother and baby pair should decide together how long they want to continue breastfeeding.
- Myth: Returning to Work Means You Have to Wean
Many mothers successfully continue breastfeeding after returning to work. Check your country’s policies and your workplace’s provisions for breastfeeding.
Options may include breastfeeding during breaks, expressing milk to take home, or having a family member bring the baby. If direct breastfeeding during work hours isn’t possible, find time to express milk and continue breastfeeding at home.
Understanding and debunking these myths can help new mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding with greater confidence and clarity.
