There is a lot of information to digest as a newly expectant mother and a lot of myths about what you can and cannot do when breastfeeding. We debunk the most popular ones here and give you the truth so you can breastfeed with confidence.
Disclosure: There are some affiliate links below, but these are all products I highly recommend. I won’t put anything on this page that I haven’t verified and/or personally used.
BREASTFEEDING MYTHS
- Small Breasts Don’t Produce Enough Milk
Breast size is irrelevant when it comes to milk production for your baby. Breastmilk supply is determined by a variety of factors and breast size is not one of them. The factors include the frequency of breastfeeding, how well the baby latches, and how much milk the baby is able to take in each feeding.
- Breastfeeding is Easy
Before leaving the hospital the nurse will provide ample instruction on how to position your newborn in a supportive manner to help them latch. Many mothers get frustrated when babies do not latch easily. This is a common feeling and nothing to worry about. Know that breastfeeding is not easy and that it will take patience and practice from both newborns and mothers to foster success.
- Breastfeeding Hurts
While breastfeeding may not be entirely comfortable, it is not to be expected to endure pain throughout the entire process either. With proper latching, you can anticipate discomfort for the first 30-60 seconds. After this initial period, the pain should ease. If you continue to feel pain past the first minute, attempt readjusting the baby’s positioning and support. If the pain becomes too uncomfortable, stop breastfeeding, and consult your doctor.
For help with breastfeeding pain, we recommend trying our Soothing Ointment. It’s ideally used for Diaper Rash for babies but we have had many testimonials of nursing mothers who found it helpful for them as well.
DNA Miracles Natural Soothing Ointment
- Breastfeed V Formula, You Have to Choose
There is a plethora of biased information online when it comes to choosing between breastfeeding and formula. The myth? That you have to choose. You can do both and it is perfectly safe for both you and your baby. While it is important to breastfeed your baby as often as possible to ensure production of breastmilk, you can incorporate formula from time to time as a safe alternative.
Check out Mead Johnson Nutrition for safe and recommended breastfeeding formula
- You Can’t Drink Alcohol
According to the CDC, it is generally advised that breastfeeding mothers do not drink for the duration of breastfeeding. However, limited consumption will not negatively affect your breastmilk or newborn. The CDC recommends no more than 1 drink per day, and to “wait at least 2 hours after a single drink before nursing” as alcohol levels are most present in breastmilk within 30-60 minutes post-consumption.
- Do Not Breastfeed While Sick
In most cases, it is safe to continue breastfeeding while sick. The antibodies in your body will deliver in your breastmilk and help your baby build their own immunity. Be sure to get plenty of rest and seek out the help of your doctor when necessary. You can stock up on some formula now for your new baby in the event you are not feeling well to breastfeed.
- Medication and Breastfeeding Don’t Mix
If you are prescribed medications, let your doctor know that you are or plan to be breastfeeding. Typically this will not pose a problem, though your doctor may advise you to take your medication at a certain time or suggest splitting the dosage.
BREASTFEEDING TIPS
Now that we’ve established the truth about a lot of breastfeeding myths, we’d love to impart some tips for safe and healthy breastfeeding practices.
- Relax, this is a beautiful thing to experience and it will take time to get it right
- Leaking is natural!
- Don’t stress about your milk supply, you will have enough for your baby
- Enjoy, this is a wonderful bonding moment between mother and child
There will be a lot of new changes with your pregnant and post-pregnant body. Reading up on what to expect can help alleviate stress of the unknown and make the journey more pleasant for you and your new baby. We’re here to help you throughout the process.
To order for your baby, visit our partner Enfamil and you can get free shipping on any $50 and up orders!
