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World Breastfeeding Week is annually observed from August 1st to 7th, aiming to promote, encourage and support breastfeeding as the ideal way to nourish infants. This global initiative raises awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding, addresses common challenges, and fosters a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers. Through various campaigns, events, and activities, World Breastfeeding Week empowers women to make informed choices about breastfeeding, ultimately promoting healthy growth and development in infants worldwide.

In a conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr Anita Sharma ( P.T.) Lactation Consultant at Fortis La Femme, GK2 debunked common myths about breastfeeding that many of us believe to be true.

Myths Around Breastfeeding

MYTH 1: You won’t produce enough milk at first/milk will come by the third day
Truth: Most women produce enough colostrum (the first milk) to meet their newborn’s needs. Newborn stomachs are very small (about the size of a cherry on day 1), so they don’t need much at first. Transition of cholestrum to mature milk takes 3days

MYTH 2: Baby is crying so you are not producing enough
Truth: Crying is a baby’s language; they cry for many other reasons too, for example, wet diapers, emotional security, colic and also when they feel hot or cold.

MYTH 3: Breastfeeding is a natural instinct and should come easily
Truth:While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come easily. Many mothers need support and practice to get the right latch, positioning and rhythm. Lactation consultants can help.

MYTH 4: You need to clean your breast before feeding
Truth: No, you don’t need to clean your breast. The microbiomes on the breast are good for the baby. In fact, nipple creams are safe for the baby too, if you must, then just apply your own milk before feeding.

ALSO READ: Breastfeeding Awareness Week 2024: Expert List Of Foods To Eat And Avoid For Both Mother And Child

MYTH 5: You have to drink milk to make milk
Truth: You don’t need to drink cow’s milk to make breast milk. Staying hydrated with water and eating a balanced diet is what’s important.

MYTH 6: Small breasts can’t produce enough milk
Truth: Breast size has nothing to do with milk production. It’s determined by the amount of glandular tissue and how often milk is removed from the breast (via nursing or pumping).

MYTH 7: You can’t breastfeed if you’re sick
Truth: In most cases, you should continue breastfeeding when sick. Your body produces antibodies that pass through your milk and help protect your baby.

MYTH 8: Formula is just as good as breast milk
Truth: Formula is a safe and healthy alternative, especially when breastfeeding isn’t possible but breast milk contains live antibodies, enzymes, and hormones that formula can’t replicate.

MYTH 9: You should stop breastfeeding if your baby has diarrhoea
Truth: Breastfeeding actually helps babies recover from diarrhoea and other illnesses, providing hydration and immune protection.

ALSO READ: Overcoming Common Breastfeeding Challenges In Early Days Of Motherhood | Know From Expert

MYTH 10: Breastfeeding makes your breasts sag
Truth: Pregnancy itself not breastfeeding is mostly responsible for changes in breast shape and firmness. In fact, breastfeeding helps you lose fat especially abdominal fat that we gain during pregnancy.

MYTH 11: You can’t get pregnant while breastfeeding
Truth: Breastfeeding may delay ovulation, especially in the early months (known as lactational amenorrhea), but it’s not a reliable form of birth control unless very specific criteria are met.

MYTH 12: You have to stop breastfeeding when your baby gets teeth
Truth: Many babies continue to breastfeed well after they get teeth. Biting can happen, but it can be managed with guidance.

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