World Breastfeeding Week 2024: Expert Guide To Busting Popular Breastfeeding Myths

Breastfeeding is a vital part of nurturing a newborn baby, providing essential nutrients, and creating a strong bond between mother and child. It also offers numerous health benefits for both the baby and the new mother. Despite the growing body of evidence supporting its advantages, several myths and misconceptions about breastfeeding persist. By debunking these myths and providing accurate information, we can empower mothers to make informed decisions and seek the support they need. To shed light on these issues, we spoke with Vanitha Ravi, BPNI-certified Lactation Counsellor, Fernandez Stork Home, Hyderabad, who helped debunk some of the most prevalent breastfeeding myths: 

Prevailing Myths About Breastfeeding

Myth 1: A breastfeeding mother should always eat plain and light food.

There is no need for a breastfeeding mother to restrict her diet to plain and light foods. According to BPNI-certified Lactation Counsellor Vanitha Ravi, "This is a common misconception, especially among family elders who advise avoiding certain foods to protect the baby's health. In reality, a breastfeeding mother needs a balanced, nutritious diet during the postpartum period, including ample protein, legumes, whole grains, and fats. All foods in moderation are acceptable. Only avoid specific foods if you are allergic to them or if advised by your doctor. 

Myth 2: Breastfeeding comes naturally to a mother.

While breastfeeding is a natural process, it doesn't always come naturally or easily to every mother.  It's important to recognize that breastfeeding is a learned skill that can require time and practice. "Many mothers find breastfeeding challenging in the early days and need practice and support to ensure a proper latch. Seeking help from certified lactation professionals can be beneficial", says BPNI-certified Lactation Counsellor Vanitha Ravi

Myth 3: The size of a mother’s breasts affects milk production.

Vanitha Ravi further states that Milk production is not related to breast size. Milk production is determined by the mammary glands, not the overall size of the breasts. Most women, regardless of breast size, produce enough milk for their babies. (Breast Milk Pumping Tips For New Moms)

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Myth 4: A sick mother should not breastfeed. 

Unless a mother is taking medication that is contraindicated for breastfeeding or has a severe illness that compromises her ability to breastfeed, she should continue. The expert suggests, “With proper hygiene maintained Breastfeeding is safe in most common illnesses like cold, flu, fever or diarrhoea. You may be advised against breastfeeding if you are on anti-cancer or tuberculosis medication.” But make sure to consult your doctor if you face any concerns.

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Myth 5: Babies become clingy if breastfed for long.

According to BPNI-certified Lactation Counsellor Vanitha Ravi, “This misconception is not scientifically proven. Healthcare professionals, including WHO and UNICEF, recommend exclusively breastfeeding for up to 6 months and extended breastfeeding for 2 years or more due to its long-term health benefits for both mother and baby and its role in strengthening their bond.”

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