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The minute the world finds out you are breastfeeding or planning to do so it seems like you are bombarded with well-meaning outsiders giving you advice on how things should work. Breastfeeding mothers often do need support and advice in the beginning but the problem is for several generations now our society has moved away from breastfeeding thanks to clever marketing from the formula companies. Your best source of advice outside of a IBCLC is most likely your grandmother or great grandmother, and the rest are perpetuating myths that were often used in the marketing of formula to encourage mothers to switch. Let's take a look at some of those top myths and the truths behind them!
1. Frequent Feeding Means Not Enough Milk
Truth: Breast milk is easier to digest than formula so it is perfectly normal for the baby to eat more frequently.
2. Formula Makes Babies Sleep Longer
Truth: This actually has a bit of truth to it, especially in the beginning when mom and baby are getting the hang of things. There is a downside to this though, since formula does stay in the system longer it can cause digestive issues leading to a fussier baby that sleeps less. The good news is by around 4 weeks breastfed babies start to catch up with their sleep patterns and you do not have tummy issues added to the mix!
3. Dad Will Not Bond With Baby
Truth: There are many ways to bond without feeding, and it is entirely possible for dad to feed baby an occasional bottle of pumped milk while mom steps out for a bit. I always recommend that dads do bath-time each night before handing baby off to mom to feed, so that they get in some quality bonding time and become part of the nightly routine.
4.You Have to Follow a Restrictive Diet
Truth: While some babies do have allergies, this is rare and for the most part a nursing mother can once again enjoy the foods that she likes as part of a well balanced diet. Even things like caffeine are not 100% off the table, just pay attention to how your baby reacts and adjust accordingly.
5. No Alcohol
Truth: Drinking while nursing in moderation is perfectly fine. Your breast milk responds to alcohol in the same way that your blood does, which means you do not have to "pump and dump" after drinking because the alcohol will filter out of your milk as you sober up and a extremely small percentage actually makes it into your milk in the first place. Nursing and drinking is more about can you safely care for baby and not the quality of your milk, a good rule is if you are safe to drive you are safe to nurse.
There are so many myths out there and this could be a very long article if we attempted to explore them all. Take the time to fully educate yourself on any areas that you have concerns and seek out a professional if you have any questions!
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