Breastfeeding is always accompanied by many hearsay claims. Do you feel confused or even bewildered by the numerous shared experiences? It's time to distinguish between what's true and what's false!
Everyone knows that breastfeeding will ruin the shape of your breasts - This is a misconception.
If breastfeeding goes smoothly, and you avoid excessive breast engorgement and wean gradually, your breasts are more likely to maintain their shape and appearance than if you abruptly stop breastfeeding after childbirth! Maintaining beautiful breasts is most importantly about avoiding excessive weight gain during pregnancy and using pregnancy-specific firming care products daily to stimulate supporting tissues and prevent skin sagging due to size changes. During breastfeeding, continue using breast care products and choose comfortable and supportive nursing bras.
Small breasts mean insufficient milk supply - Wrong
While women with larger breasts were historically preferred when hiring wet nurses, in reality, all women have breasts of almost the same size, so breast size is unrelated to milk production. Lactation primarily depends on the baby's feeding: the more the baby suckles, the more milk is produced, even if the breasts are "small"!
Breast milk is often not nutritious enough - a misconception
Breast milk is never "bad," "too thin," or "malnourished." If your baby's weight gain is not ideal, it may be due to incorrect latching. Like all new mothers, you may temporarily reduce your milk supply due to fatigue or emotional factors. Don't panic; simply let your baby nurse frequently and thoroughly, and get plenty of rest, and your milk supply will quickly return to normal.
Breastfeeding hinders weight loss - False
The truth is quite the opposite; producing breast milk burns a significant amount of calories. If you eat a healthy and moderate diet, breastfeeding can help you lose the weight you gained during pregnancy more quickly.
Breastfeeding always leaves mothers exhausted - a misconception
Breastfeeding itself isn't tiring. As long as you and your baby are in a comfortable position, breastfeeding doesn't require special physical exertion. If you feel tired, it's mostly due to physical changes, emotional factors, or perhaps you're doing too much? This isn't the time to be a supermom! Ask your partner, family, or friends for help and enjoy the soothing hormones released during breastfeeding.
Co-sleeping with your baby makes breastfeeding easier - Correct
Closeness between mother and baby is beneficial during breastfeeding, and nighttime breastfeeding is easier when the baby is lying next to you. However, please follow safety guidelines: avoid covering the baby with thick blankets, do not place pillows under the baby's head, use a sturdy mattress, and ensure there is no risk of falls. Other options include placing the crib next to the bed or using a dedicated side-sleeping crib.
Nighttime breastfeeding makes breastfeeding easier - Correct
No matter how many mothers advise you to get your baby to "sleep through the night as early as possible," don't rush it! In fact, most newborns need nighttime feedings in the first few months. Furthermore, nighttime feedings prevent long intervals between feedings and help maintain a sufficient milk supply.
Flat or poorly shaped nipples make breastfeeding impossible - Wrong
Regardless of breast shape, babies will eventually learn to suckle. Just make sure your baby is facing the breast correctly. If your baby has difficulty latching on, such as due to breast engorgement, gently massage the nipple and express a small amount of milk before letting your baby suckle.
Breastfeeding for less than 6 months is pointless - False
While health authorities and many pediatricians recommend breastfeeding until 6 months, it depends on your preference and available time. Even short periods of breastfeeding can be beneficial for both you and your baby. You can still breastfeed in the mornings, evenings, and on weekends after returning to work. However, it also depends on the baby; some babies show a need for independence earlier, while others prefer longer breastfeeding sessions. The father's role also needs to be considered, as he may feel excluded the longer the breastfeeding sessions last.
Breastfeeding can be painful - correct
In most cases, however, the pain is due to the baby's incorrect positioning. Nipple sensitivity is normal and temporary during the first week. If the pain persists, consult a pediatrician or midwife.
Breastfeeding does not mean you don't need contraception - Correct
In theory, menstruation should not occur as long as you are exclusively breastfeeding. However, ovulation can still happen during breastfeeding, even before the first menstrual period. If you do not wish to become pregnant immediately, please use contraception and consult a doctor or midwife.
Breastfeeding is not allowed while taking medication - Incorrect
Many medications are compatible with breastfeeding, and your doctor will prescribe the appropriate medication for you. However, please do not take any medication on your own! Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pharmacist before taking any medication that may affect your baby.
