Lactation Specialists Debunk Breastfeeding Myths
When you’re expecting, the thought of nursing your baby seems like one of the easiest things in the world. But when it doesn’t go as planned and you struggle to get your baby to have a proper breastfeeding latch or produce enough milk, the experience can feel almost impossible. The truth is, most new moms find that breastfeeding is a wonderful way to feed their babies and meet their nutritional needs. Unfortunately, our society has a lot of preconceived ideas about breastfeeding that make it seem confusing and even unfulfilling for the vast majority of women who try it. These myths may feel like common sense, but they are actually just that…myths! Here are six common misconceptions about breastfeeding and why they may not always be what you think they are.
It’s painful for the mother to breastfeed
The idea that breastfeeding is painful for the mother is one of the most common breastfeeding myths. This idea is likely based on the biblical notion that women were made to be “nursing mothers” and thus, it should hurt when they are “nursing.” In reality, breastfeeding is a very gentle process that is unlikely to be painful at all. However, some women experience a very mild sensation of “tingling” in their breasts, which should subside after a short while. If this sensation is uncomfortable, you can try gently massaging the underside of your areola to stimulate your nipple and areolar tissue. There are also many natural ways to soothe breastfeeding pain, including wearing a supportive bra, taking a warm shower, or resting your breasts on a warm towel.
You need to nurse your baby every 4-6 hours
Many new mothers assume that they need to nurse their baby every few hours and be prepared to nurse in the middle of the night. This can be a painful expectation to live up to, especially if you are also working full-time or have caring for a newborn infant during the day. However, humans are designed to have different sleep cycles, and your baby’s feeding schedule is unlikely to match yours. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be fed on a schedule between every four hours and six hours during the day and between six hours at night. This means that your baby may actually wake up several hours after he was last fed, but he will stay awake for much less time than he would if he were continuously hungry. Many mothers report that their babies stay awake for only a few hours at a time and quickly go back to sleep, allowing them to get a good night’s sleep. breastfeeding.
All women produce the same amount of milk when they breastfeed
The idea that your milk supply will be the same regardless of whether you breastfeed or formula-feed is very common. However, the amount of milk you produce while breastfeeding will depend on a number of factors, including your diet and your current weight. The most important factor is your current breastfeeding goals, as your milk supply will vary depending on your goals. If you are exclusively breastfeeding your baby to boost your milk supply, you will find that you produce less milk than you would if you were formula feeding.
On the other hand, if you are supplementing your baby’s formula with breast milk, your milk supply will be much higher. There are also a number of factors that may affect your milk supply and make it more difficult to produce the amount of milk your baby needs. While some of these factors, such as being stressed or having an infection, can be prevented, some, such as a low milk supply due to a genetic condition, cannot. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider if you are having trouble producing milk or you are concerned about your milk supply.
You can buy formula instead of breastfeeding
The idea that you can buy formula instead of breastfeeding is a common breastfeeding myth. While it is true that many formulas have a milk composition similar to human milk, they still must be digested and broken down by your baby’s miniature stomach and intestines just like breast milk. The differences in cost between formula and breast milk may be enough to discourage some parents from breastfeeding, but they are actually a great opportunity to increase your baby’s nutritional intake!
Breast milk contains a lot of antibodies and other beneficial substances that are valuable for babies. Some of these nutrients, such as lactose, may be hard for your baby to absorb with formula. Breast milk also contains fat, vitamins, minerals, and other components that have important functions in your baby’s development and health. It’s important to note that each baby’s nutritional needs are different, and there is no one perfect formula for every baby. The best way to ensure your baby gets all the nutrients he needs is to breastfeed. If your baby is receiving enough calories and nutrients from breast milk, formula supplementation is not necessary. There are also many ways to make the formula more nutritious, including adding breast milk, adding fruits and vegetables, or using a special formula designed to be easier to digest.
Never use a pacifier with your baby to sleep
The idea that a pacifier should never be used at night is a breastfeeding myth. Although this may be common advice for older babies, it is actually unsafe for infants to use pacifiers at all. New research has found that infants who use pacifiers are far more likely to develop ear infections, dental problems, and possibly even obesity than infants who don’t use pacifiers. In addition, there is no scientific evidence that suggests breastfeeding is any easier with a pacifier. In fact, OB/GYN physicians near Walpole and lactation consultants recommend using a pacifier only during the day and placing the pacifier in your baby’s mouth before he goes to bed. This way, your baby learns to use the pacifier without any pressure from you. The idea that you should never use a pacifier to help your baby fall asleep is a breastfeeding myth that can lead to serious complications.
It’s easier for an older baby to start breastfeeding
The idea that it’s easier for an older baby to learn to breastfeed is a common breastfeeding myth. Once again, this is based on the assumption that breastfeeding is more painful for the mother. However, most research suggests that the age at which a baby is able to begin breastfeeding has more to do with the quality of the mother’s milk than the age of the baby. Many babies who have trouble latching on to the breast have latching problems because the mother’s milk production is actually decreasing, not because the baby is older. In addition, many breastfeeding mothers have a hard time latching even when the baby is not “too old.” Many breastfeeding experts recommend that any mom breastfeed her baby, regardless of his age. However, there are certain groups that may find it easier to wean a baby off the breast, including new mothers who are separated from their partners while they are working or going to school, and women with a history of breast cancer.
That’s all there is to know about breastfeeding – you should be done!
The idea that breastfeeding is hard and should be mastered is a breastfeeding myth. The reality is that breastfeeding is a wonderful way to feed your baby, but it can be confusing and frustrating at times. There are many things new moms struggle with, including getting their baby to latch on well, producing enough milk, and getting their baby to sleep through the night without a pacifier. While these challenges can make breastfeeding frustrating, they are not impossible. Many breastfeeding mothers are able to successfully meet these challenges and are very satisfied with their breastfeeding decision. Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to feed your baby, and it is not impossible for you to do it successfully.