Are you a soon-to-be nursing mother? Thinking twice about breastfeeding because of stuff you've heard? You do know that breast milk is best for infants, right? So, what are these common breastfeeding myths that's holding you back? Here we find out and try to dispel them.
Breastfeeding Hurts
It's a myth. There may be, however, some tenderness during the first few days but it should be a temporary situation that lasts only a few days. If you do experience extreme pain, it's almost always due to the baby latching on poorly. So do ask your Pediatrician how to breastfeed properly. If, however, you have been having nipple pain that persists three or four days or if it lasts beyond five or six days, you should have it checked.
I'm Not Producing Enough Milk
It's a myth. Some mothers might even say "I have really small breasts... I don't think I have milk in these". Also not true. It only seems like there is not enough milk because the baby is not latched on properly and therefore is unable to get what's there. Hence, it's all about the latching.
Pumping Produces More Milk.
It's a myth. A pump maybe helpful for mothers who are always on the go and would want to store breast milk ahead of time. However, traditional breastfeeding has many benefits compared to pumping. One is the mother and child bond, which is very essential in normal infant development. How much milk can be pumped depends on many factors too, including the mother's stress level. Hence, the baby who breastfeeds well can get much more milk than what his or her mother can pump.
Breastfeed On Each Side For 20 Minutes
Slightly true but still a myth. The breastfeeding rule is, in general, feed on demand. If your baby appears to be wanting more, then breastfeed. If he or she seems to be full already, then stop and resume later on. Again, it is important to know that the baby will only breastfeed better and longer if he is latched on properly. Also, allow him or her to burp in between sessions.
