In the second article in our series that covers everything you need to know about breastfeeding, we will focus on debunking a few more breastfeeding myths and clearing up some of the misinformation out there. On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week, check the first series article.
With so much unsolicited advice and “wisdom” available from well-meaning grandmothers, older sisters, neighboring aunts, and of course the Internet, new moms find it difficult to know what is true and what is not.
Here is a summary of some surprising facts and breastfeeding myths:
Myth No. # 1: some women don’t make enough milk
Done:
Absolutely not! Mothers produce milk naturally after babies are born and the more effectively the baby feeds, the more milk the mother will secrete. Mothers can adequately breastfeed twins and even triplets. There are only two medical conditions that can cause a woman to have a low milk supply: physical abnormality and hormonal imbalance.
Myth No. # 2: women with small breasts will not produce enough milk for the baby
Done:
Contrary to popular beliefsize does not matter! Regardless of the size of your breasts, breast tissue essential for your child to develop in response to pregnancy. The breast ducts are found in this newly developed tissue, not in the fatty tissue responsible for breast enlargement. This necessarily implies that the amount of milk you make is not affected by the size of your breasts.
Myth No. # 3: it’s normal for breastfeeding to hurt
Done:
According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), new mothers may experience some discomfort when they initially start breastfeeding, but this should only last a few days. It is also absolutely normal for the nipples to feel sore. It is worth reiterating that the number one cause of nipple pain or discomfort is that you are positioning the baby incorrectly or not ensuring that the baby is securely attached to the nipples. Both problems can be solved if you seek the help of a nurse, a doctor, or an elderly woman in your family. With that said, if you find that there is excruciating pain or pain, speak to a doctor as soon as possible.
Myth No. # 4: your nipples should be washed with soap before each feed
Done:
There is absolutely no need to clean the breast or nipples before breastfeeding. In addition to unnecessarily complicating the natural breastfeeding process, washing your nipples with soap and shower gels can strip them of their natural protective oil, causing dryness and irritation. The nipples contain “good bacteria” that help in the development of the health of your newborn baby. immune system throughout his life. All you need to do is keep your breasts and nipples clean by washing them daily with warm water.
Myth No. # 5: you need to drink milk to increase breast milk production
Done:
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that the consumption of milk or dairy products has an effect on the production of breast milk. In fact, there is no question that calcium is important to you and is abundant in cow’s milk, but it can also be found in a variety of other foods such as yogurt, cheese, and certain green vegetables. Also, if your diet is deficient in calcium, your body will use the calcium from its stores to continue producing nutritious breast milk.
Whether you drink milk or not, it is important that you are hydrated at all times with juices along with a healthy and balanced diet. It is essential to drink at least one glass of water each time you feed your baby, as well as whenever you are thirsty in between. Try to drink at least eight to ten glasses of water a day. Breast milk production is a natural process in which your body absorbs important nutrients and passes them on to your baby.
Myth # 6: You shouldn’t breastfeed if you have COVID-19
Done:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), no evidence has yet been found to conclude vertical transmission of COVID-19 through breastfeeding. Therefore, there is no reason to stop or avoid breastfeeding. However, it is important that mothers with COVID-19 or they are suspected of carrying the virus should choose to breastfeed their babies as long as they follow all safety protocols.
In conclusion
The evidence is clear; Breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition and It strengthens your babies’ immune system, protects them from disease, and provides protection against non-communicable diseases in the future.
Contributed by: Rachana Arya
