Myths and Facts About Breastfeeding

There was an article in the Living Section of the Omaha World Herold Newspaper on August 29th called Myths and Facts About Breastfeeding. It was written by: Katy Healey.

Myth: There is no way to know if the baby is getting enough milk.

Fact: There are several ways to know if baby is getting enough milk at the breast: Swallowing is heard, the baby is relaxed after feeding, it has adequate wet and soiled diapers and adequate weight gain. After breastfeeding, a baby should act satisfied and not continue to exhibit feeding cues or mouthing motions that typically indicate hunger.

Myth: Moms don't make enough breast milk.

Fact: Moms who breastfeed regularly and frequently will supply enough milk, assuming the baby latches on properly. Milk supply may decrease if milk isn't being removed from the breast. If it's not removed, it's not going to be replenished. Sometimes medical conditions do affect milk production. Contact a lactation consultant for more information.

Myth: Modern formulas are the same as breastmilk.

Fact: Modern formulas are very different from breastmilk. Breastmilk is made specifically for human babies, and therefore is the most easily digested and the nutrients are readily absorbed. Formulas are made from cows milk and plant derivatives and do not contain the immunologic properties that protect babies from infection. 

Myth: Breastfeeding is painful.

Fact: Breastfeeding can be painful if baby is not latching on properly. The baby's nose should be aligned with the nipple so when baby opens his or her mouth wide, the nipple goes to the roof of the baby's mouth. If it is painful to breastfeed, contact a lactation consultant.

Myth: Moms who have infections should stop breastfeeding.

Fact: Mothers do not need to stop breastfeeding with most infections. In fact, breastfeeding while mom is sick provides babies with extra protective immunities specific to that infection. Seek advice from a lactation consultant if there is any question.

Myth: Moms on medication cannot breastfeed.

Fact: Most medications are compatible with breastfeeding, especially if it is safe to take during pregnancy. There are some medications that should not be taken, but often there are others that can be substituted. Seek advice from a certified lactation consultant or physician to determine safety.

Myth: Mothers must wash their nipples before breastfeeding.

Fact: Mothers do not need to wash their nipples prior to breastfeeding because doing so can remove the beneficial oils that are secreted from Montgomery glands.  The Montgomery glands are small pimple-like structures around the areola that produce oil that lubricates the areola and nipple and discourages bacterial growth. Daily rinsing with warm water while bathing is sufficient.


Sources: Carlie Lesley, lactation consultant, Nebraska Medical Center; Sue Hall, lactation consultant, Methodist Woman's Hospital

Myths About Breastfeeding

I heard a few of these myths when I was nursing my two son's:

1. Feed times should be timed and the baby should feed every few hours.

This isn't true. Feed your baby when your baby is hungry. There will be times when they are going through a growth spurt, and they want to eat all the time. Then they'll go through a time when they are not growing, and not as interested in eating. I found that when my babies had a cold they ate less, when they were getting better they ate a lot!

2. You can't have enough milk to feed that baby so often.

Most women's bodies accommodate to how much the baby needs. Some people have problems producing enough, and some people have problems producing too much. Once you've nursed for awhile successfully, your body will accommodate to what your baby needs.

3. You have mastitis, so you must stop nursing!

You should keep nursing, and talk to your doctor about what to take to help you get over the mastitis. Otherwise your milk supply will go down.

4. Your milk is too strong or too weak.

Breast milk is just right for your baby. It does change as time goes on. In the beginning it is more yellow from the colostrum you have in your milk. Colostrum helps fight off infection. There are times when your milk is more fatty, and times when it is more watery.

5. Too much milk can make your baby overweight. 

Not true. Babies are just sometimes fat. I've seen a lot of toddlers that are skinny, when they were fat babies. Breast milk is balanced right for your baby. Some babies do better with shorter feedings. That is if they spit up a lot. There is nothing to worry about if they spit up as long as it doesn't smell, or a funky color.

6. It is impossible to get pregnant while breastfeeding.

This is not true. It's harder to get pregnant, but it's not impossible. Talk to your doctor about birth control pills to go on. There are different pills they will prescribe you while you are nursing.

7. You should only nurse your baby for the first few months. 

This is the recommended time. I see anything additional as a perk. Really it is between you and your baby. If you feel done, then it's time to start weaning. If your baby is done, they will start weaning themselves.