10 More Myths About Breastfeeding Busted, By Lactation Consultant Arushi

Myth 1: Babies born through caesarean births are not able to feed on their mother, as the body doesn’t produce milk

Truth: It is true that a C section causes the mother’s milk production to be delayed but it does not affect the mother’s capacity to make enough milk for her baby. All the mothers who give birth to a healthy infant whether through a natural or cesarean birth can successfully breastfeed their babies THECHANNEL46

Myth 2: A mother isn’t making enough milk for the baby if the infant is crying or feeding often

Truth: Babies cry for a variety of reasons: – They may be wet, cold, hot or in pain – Have heard a loud, frightening noise – They simply want to be held THECHANNEL46

Myth 3: Exercising affects the taste of breast milk

Truth: Doctors recommend exercising or physical activity after delivery, it is perfectly healthy for the mothers. There is no scientific proof that exercise can affect the taste of breast milk. It’s your boob! You will sweat while exercising, and those mammary glands are no exception THECHANNEL46

Myth 4: Babies who are breastfed tend to cling to the mother more

Truth: Every child is unique. No matter how they are fed, some are clingy and others are not. Breastfeeding not only offers the best nutrition for children, but it is also beneficial to their brain development. Since breastfed babies are carried frequently THECHANNEL46

Myth 5: It is difficult for the baby to wean if the infant has been breastfed for more than a year

Truth: Weaning ease is determined more by your child’s developmental readiness for weaning than by his or her age. For infant-led weaning, each child has his or her developmental timeline. If mom starts weaning, the closer the child gets to weaning on his own THECHANNEL46

Myth 6: Breastfeeding requires washing your nipples each time

Truth: Washing the nipple before feeding dries the nipple and makes them more prone to nipple damage. Also, the Montgomery glands located on the dark area surrounding your nipples releases fragrances, with which the baby associates the mother. THECHANNEL46

Myth 7: Other replacements cannot be used if the mother is planning on breastfeeding

Truth: Although continuing to breastfeed, mothers may decide that they need to use the formula on occasion. It’s important to get unbiased details about formula and other breastmilk substitutes. Effective and frequent milk removal is very important for a good milk supply THECHANNEL46

Myth 8: A newborn should be kept separate from the mother right after birth, to let the mother rest

Truth: Healthy mothers and babies should not be separated after birth or in the early days after birth unless it is medically advised. The process of birthing can be very traumatising for the mother and baby. For the baby, the only familiar environment is the mother. THECHANNEL46

Myth 9: The mother should only consume plain food at the time of breastfeeding

Truth: This misconception stems from the belief that spicy and strong-flavoured foods can contaminate your breast milk and cause your baby to have an upset stomach. However, studies show that when breastfeeding, you can (and should!) eat whatever you want. THECHANNEL46

Myth 10: A mother cannot breastfeed if she’s sick or taking any medication

Truth: Breastfeeding when sick is absolutely healthy and beneficial to your infant. In certain cases, the antibodies generated by your body to combat the illness will be passed on to your infant, allowing him or her to develop his or her own defences. THECHANNEL46

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