We encourage breastfeeding moms to share their experiences and support one another, some of the information is not altogether accurate. And sometimes, the wrong information can get passed from one woman to the next.
Here are seven of the most common breastfeeding myths:-
- Myth: You should only eat plain food while breastfeeding:
Like everybody else, breastfeeding moms need to eat a balanced diet. In general, there is no need to change food habits. Babies are exposed to their mothers’ food preferences from the time they are in the womb. If a mother perceives that her baby reacts to a specific food she eats, it is best to consult a specialist.
- Myth: Exercise will affect the taste of your milk
Exercise is healthy, also for breastfeeding moms. There is no evidence that it affects the taste of your milk.
- Myth: You can never use formula if you want to breastfeed
Moms may decide they need to use formula on some occasions, while continuing to breastfeed. It is important to seek unbiased information on formula and other products that replace breastmilk. To keep breast milk production going, continue offering the breast to your baby as often as possible. It can be useful for moms to consult a lactation specialist or skilled professional to help with a plan that works best for them to continue breastfeeding.
- Myth: Many mothers can’t produce enough milk.
Almost all mothers produce the right amount of milk for their babies. Breast Milk production is determined by how well the baby is latched on to the breast, the frequency of breastfeeding and how well the baby is removing milk with each feeding. Breastfeeding isn’t a ‘one woman’ job and moms need support. Support like ongoing breastfeeding guidance from health care providers, help at home, and staying healthy by eating and drinking well.
- Myth: You shouldn’t breastfeed if you’re sick.
Depending on the kind of illness, moms can usually continue breastfeeding when they’re sick. You need to make sure you get the right treatment, and to rest, eat and drink well. In many cases, the antibodies your body makes to treat your disease or illness will pass on to your baby, building his or her own defences.
- Myth: It’s hard to wean a baby if you breastfeed for more than a year.
There’s no evidence that it is more difficult to stop breastfeeding after one year, but there is evidence that breastfeeding up to two years is beneficial for both moms and kids. All mothers and babies are different and need to determine together how long they want to breastfeed.
- Myth: If you go back to work, you’ll have to wean your baby.
Many moms continue breastfeeding after going back to work. First, check the policies in your country and your own workplace. If you have the right time and a place to breastfeed during working hours, you may be able to go home and breastfeed, ask a family member or friend to bring your baby to you, or to express your milk and take it home. If you don’t have the option to breastfeed during working hours, look for moments during the day to express your milk and then feed your baby directly when you are at home. If you decide to give your baby a breastmilk substitute for some feeds, it is still very good to continue breastfeeding whenever you are with your baby.
I hope this article was helpful for you to understand the Myths related to mother’s milk and If you still have any queries, then please write to us in the comment section below. For more such articles, keep visiting our website.