Myths about breastfeeding

Myths about breastfeeding 

There are countless myths – and breastfeeding is no exception. Read on as I delve into some of the many myths I have heard in consultations and elsewhere over the years.

Myth 1: Breastfeeding hurts

If breastfeeding hurts, something needs to be checked and changed. Breastfeeding should not hurt! There can be various reasons for pain during breastfeeding. It could be the mother's breastfeeding position, the baby's position, or the latch technique, or perhaps the baby's tongue, lip, or jaw needs to be checked by an osteopath. If you feel pain in the form of a sharp stab in the chest, it could be a sign of thrush. When the baby latches correctly, they create a vacuum. This can feel intense for the first 10–15 seconds. And it feels like… well, a vacuum. But there is a difference between regular pain and the feeling of a vacuum. If it hurts when you breastfeed, reach out to a lactation consultant. Often, a single hour of guidance can change everything. And remember, it is perfectly okay to ask for help! 

Myth 2: There should be 3 hours between each feeding

No, that is the short answer. The milk bar should be open and free 24/7. Breastfeeding is about so much more than meeting a need for food and drink. Breastfeeding is also about regulating the baby's nervous system, coziness, comfort, security, etc. And babies are different – and often, the individual child also changes throughout the breastfeeding journey. Furthermore, the frequency of feedings at night and during the day is often different too. Some babies feed more than others. Period. The baby shows you how often, how long, and when. 

Myth 3: Breastfeeding makes breasts longer

It is not true that breastfeeding makes breasts longer. It is especially during pregnancy that breasts develop. Both the milk ducts and milk glands develop, which makes the breasts larger. Some women also experience stretch marks on their breasts during pregnancy. This is completely normal. 

Myth 4: Large breasts produce more milk than small breasts

That statement is also untrue. Large and small breasts can produce the same amount of milk. And both large and small breasts can produce plenty of milk for one, two, or even more babies at the same time. That being said, there is a difference in when the milk is produced. Breasts with many milk glands often store the milk between feedings. Simply because they have storage capacity. Smaller breasts with fewer milk glands, on the other hand, produce the milk while the baby is feeding. Both are smart and yet another proof that the body is wise!

Myth 5: Breasts need to be hardened for breastfeeding

No, breasts are naturally made to produce milk and to breastfeed. It is a myth that breasts need to be hardened. In return, it is important to understand the basics of breastfeeding positions, how the baby should lie, and signs that the baby is latching correctly. All of this is to support a good breastfeeding setup and a good breastfeeding journey, build up good milk production, and prevent any wounds, tears, etc. on the nipples. 

Myth 6: Do lactation teas and Christmas beer have a real effect on milk production

Christmas beer: There are studies showing that alcohol inhibits milk production. Therefore, it cannot be recommended to drink alcohol – nor Christmas beer. Many people think that a single item can help the mother relax and thus help milk production and the let-down reflex. It is very possible that the mother relaxes more after a little alcohol, but it is not only the mother who consumes alcohol. The amount of alcohol the mother has in her blood gets to the baby through the milk. Unlike the mother, the baby has an immature liver that becomes overworked to a greater extent by alcohol consumption. For the same reason, the baby takes twice as long as the mother to excrete alcohol from the body. In addition, alcohol can make the baby drowsy and thus cloud the baby's signs of hunger, etc. In other words, the answer here is a big no to alcohol as long as you are pregnant or breastfeeding. 

Lactation teas: Lactation teas consist of various herbs. And also various combinations of herbs depending on which lactation tea blend you buy. Nature is wise. Of course, there are herbs that promote and support milk production. In fact, a long range of herbs. If your milk production is low, it is important to start by looking at the basic elements: As a breastfeeding mother, you need plenty of peace, rest, and sleep. And on top of that, a couple of liters of water/fluids a day, as well as enough, good, and nutritious food. It may sound simple. Many new mothers need help prioritizing peace, help remembering to eat, and perhaps also someone to sit with the baby while the mother sleeps, so she can completely relax and achieve deep and important sleep.

This is completely fine to supplement with a lactation tea if you feel like it.