Common Breastfeeding Myths

Unfortunately, many women actually avoid breastfeeding because they have heard myths about breastfeeding that are taken into account when they are making their decision. So, it is important that women learn the truth about breastfeeding so they can make the best possible choice for themselves and their babies.

The following are a few common myths about nursing that are commonly passed around and the real truth behind them.

Myth #1: If I Breastfeed My Breasts Will Sag

The Truth: Believe it or not, many women decide not to breastfeed because they think it will cause sagging. Actually this is not true. Pregnancy itself can cause some sagging, but not breastfeeding. So, if you have decided not to breastfeed for this reason alone - think again. It won't cause any more sagging and your baby really benefits from the nutrients. It is best for your body, too!

Myth #2 - I Can't Breastfeed Because I Have to Go Back to Work

The Truth: Yes you can! While at one time it may have been more difficult to nurse a baby on the job, there are actually many different companies today that have special lactation rooms that allow new moms to pump milk whenever they need to, which makes it easy and convenient to breastfeed, even if you do have a job. Breastfeeding is important, since statistics show that babies who are breastfeed actually are 35% less likely to deal with illness. So, even if you have to work, you can still breastfeed and give your baby the extra boost and avoid having to miss work for a sick baby later on.

Myth #3 - Breastfeeding is Going to Hurt

The Truth: There are many women who are told that breastfeeding is going to hurt for awhile; however, this too is a very common myth. While women can expect to experience a bit of tenderness when they first start breastfeeding, there should be no really bad pain. So, new mothers should not dread breastfeeding their babies because of this. If there is any pain that lasts for more than a few days, a woman should make sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible...and it can be fixed.

Myth #4 - Formulas Have the Same Nutrients as Breast Milk

The Truth: Some people try to say that today's formulas are just as good as breast milk, offering the same nutrients. This is just not true!

Actually formulas are in no way equivalent to breast milk and there are many things that they don't have that breast milk does, such as enzymes, hormones, and antibodies that are extremely important for a baby. Breast milk is actually made by a mothers' body to sustain her particular baby, while a formula could never replicate that individual design.

Myth #5 - You Need to Eat More While

The Truth: Actually, this is totally false. Even women who are on lower calorie diets and trying to lose weight will still make enough milk for their baby. Some women tend to worry that it they don't eat right for a couple days it will affect their milk; however, this does not usually affect the amount of milk that is produced.

Myth #6 - You Can't Breastfeed if You've had a Breast Reduction Done

The Truth: This is just another myth that has no substance behind it. While it can be a more difficult for mothers to produce milk when they have had a breast reduction surgery, most mothers who have had this surgery done still have plenty of milk to breastfeed. Even if you don't have enough milk to totally support your baby on breastfeeding, you can supplement your baby with a formula as well to make sure that they are getting enough to eat.

While breastfeeding myths will never go away, it is important that every mother know the truth so that she can make the best decision for her and her sweet new baby!