Breastfeeding Myths Busted!
Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural thing, but just because it's natural doesn't mean it always happens easily! I researched a ton about breastfeeding before having Kenneth and I still needed support from a Lactation Consultant while we were in the hospital. We both had to learn a new skill and it definitely took some practice! I'd like to bust some common breastfeeding myths and pass on the knowledge I've gained to future Mommas.
1. You'll need to supplement if your milk doesn't come in right away.
It can take anywhere from 3-7 days for your milk to come in after you give birth. This is totally normal. Skin to skin with mom and putting baby to the breast as often as possible are the best things you can do to promote milk production. Until your milk comes in your body is producing colostrum; which is high in calories and nutrient dense. This is all your baby needs until you start producing milk! It is also normal to lose weight in the first couple days, so do not let that alarm you. Supplementing with formula in the in between period is not necessary and can actually hurt your supply.
This is the myth that I am the most passionate about busting. Yes, breastfeeding provides nourishment, but it also gives your baby so much more. Breastfeeding on demand is not only what is best for your baby, but also what is best for your supply. Did you know that breastmilk produces EXACTLY what baby needs based on the saliva transfer? If your baby is sick, you are producing antibodies to fight that illness. If it's night time, your body is producing melatonin to aid your baby in falling asleep. I love this chart that lists just A FEW of the reasons your baby (or toddler) wants to nurse. I won't re-list them all for you, but take a look. People will often state that babies can sleep through the night after a certain age because they are no longer hungry and night and don't need to nurse. While it may be true that they're not hungry, who are we to say they're not thirsty or scared? Food for thought.
1. You'll need to supplement if your milk doesn't come in right away.
It can take anywhere from 3-7 days for your milk to come in after you give birth. This is totally normal. Skin to skin with mom and putting baby to the breast as often as possible are the best things you can do to promote milk production. Until your milk comes in your body is producing colostrum; which is high in calories and nutrient dense. This is all your baby needs until you start producing milk! It is also normal to lose weight in the first couple days, so do not let that alarm you. Supplementing with formula in the in between period is not necessary and can actually hurt your supply.
2. You need to toughen up your nipples before you have your baby.
There's nothing you can do to prepare your nipples for breastfeeding. It's probably going to be uncomfortable at first, but you'll get used to it. I think mine hurt for about 3 weeks after having Kenneth and after that it was pretty painless. There are things you can use to make it less uncomfortable. Lanolin and coconut oil are 2 I've heard recommended a lot. Personally, I would just take some breastmilk and put in on my nipples in between feedings and let it air dry. If it is incredibly painful when your baby latches you should contact an IBCLC and see if they can help. Nursing shouldn't hurt!
3. Cluster Feeding
Okay, so, cluster feeding in itself is not a myth; but I often find that people don't recognize that cluster feeding is what helps bring in their milk and establish a supply. A lot of people are concerned that baby isn't getting enough to eat because they are constantly wanting to nurse. That is the MYTH. I know it's hard to be sure that baby is getting enough when you breastfeeding since there is no way to measure the ounces; you can however keep track of dirty diaper output. Days 1-4 of baby's life they should have as many wet diapers as they are days old (2 days old, 2 wet diapers) and after that baby should be having 5-7 wet diapers in a 24 hr period. If this is not the case, you should contact your child's doctor.
4. Food transfers through your breastmilk.
Food does NOT transfer through your breastmilk! There are some proteins (dairy, peanut, soy) that can transfer through your milk and create issues for your little one if they have an intolerance, but eating broccoli will not make your baby gassy. You can also drink alcohol and breastfeed safely. I don't drink because I am sober and in recovery, but it is safe to do so! If you can safely find your baby and pick them up, you are safe to nurse. No need to pump and dump; don't waste that liquid gold!
5. Breastfeeding is only for hunger.
This is the myth that I am the most passionate about busting. Yes, breastfeeding provides nourishment, but it also gives your baby so much more. Breastfeeding on demand is not only what is best for your baby, but also what is best for your supply. Did you know that breastmilk produces EXACTLY what baby needs based on the saliva transfer? If your baby is sick, you are producing antibodies to fight that illness. If it's night time, your body is producing melatonin to aid your baby in falling asleep. I love this chart that lists just A FEW of the reasons your baby (or toddler) wants to nurse. I won't re-list them all for you, but take a look. People will often state that babies can sleep through the night after a certain age because they are no longer hungry and night and don't need to nurse. While it may be true that they're not hungry, who are we to say they're not thirsty or scared? Food for thought.
These are the 5 most common myths that I've heard from new and expecting mothers, but I certainly haven't covered all of the myths out there. If you have questions please feel free to leave a comment and I'll do the best I can to dig up the facts!
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