Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish your baby, but it’s also surrounded by a lot of misinformation. From old wives' tales to conflicting advice from well-meaning family and friends, it can be hard to know what’s true and what’s not. Let’s break down some of the most common breastfeeding myths and uncover the facts!
Myth #1: You Shouldn’t Breastfeed if You’re Sick
Fact: In most cases, you should continue breastfeeding when you’re sick.
Many moms worry that they’ll pass their illness to their baby through breast milk, but the opposite is actually true! When you're sick, your body produces antibodies that help protect your baby from the illness. If you stop nursing, your baby misses out on this immune boost. The only exceptions are a few serious illnesses, so always check with your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
Myth #2: If You Have Small Breasts, You Won’t Produce Enough Milk
Fact: Breast size has nothing to do with milk supply.
Milk production is based on demand, not breast size. The amount of glandular tissue in your breasts (not their size) determines how much milk you can produce. Frequent nursing or pumping signals your body to keep making more milk, regardless of how large or small your breasts are.
Myth #3: You Have to Wait for Your Breasts to Feel Full Before Nursing
Fact: Breastfeeding works on supply and demand, so waiting can actually decrease milk production.
Many moms believe they should wait until their breasts feel full before nursing, but this can actually lead to a decrease in milk supply. The more often your baby nurses, the more milk your body produces. If you delay feedings, your body may think less milk is needed and slow down production. Instead of waiting, nurse your baby on demand to keep your milk supply strong and responsive to your baby's needs.
Myth #4: You Have to Drink Milk to Make Milk
Fact: Your body makes breast milk from the nutrients you consume, not from dairy intake.
While dairy is a great source of calcium, you don’t need to drink milk to produce breast milk. A well-balanced diet with plenty of calcium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, and fortified plant-based alternatives can provide all the nutrients you need for healthy milk production.
Myth #5: Formula is Just as Nutritious as Breast Milk
Fact: While formula is a great alternative, breast milk is uniquely designed for your baby.
Formula provides essential nutrients, but breast milk is a living substance tailored to your baby’s needs. It contains antibodies, hormones, and enzymes that help boost immunity, support digestion, and promote brain development—things that formula simply can’t replicate. However, fed is best, and every mom should feel empowered to make the choice that’s best for her family.
Myth #6: You Must Stop Breastfeeding Once Your Baby Gets Teeth
Fact: Many babies continue breastfeeding well after getting their first teeth.
Teething doesn’t mean the end of breastfeeding! While some babies may bite initially, they quickly learn to adjust. Proper latch and positioning can help prevent biting, and most moms continue nursing their little ones well beyond the teething stage.
Myth #7: You Can't Breastfeed If You Have an Inverted or Flat Nipple
Fact: Many moms with flat or inverted nipples successfully breastfeed.
Babies nurse from the breast, not just the nipple. With proper latch techniques, nipple stimulation, and sometimes the use of nipple shields, moms with flat or inverted nipples can breastfeed successfully. A lactation consultant can help find the best approach if you’re struggling.
Myth #8: Breastfeeding Makes Your Breasts Sag
Fact: Pregnancy, not breastfeeding, is the main cause of breast changes.
Breasts go through many changes during pregnancy due to hormonal shifts and weight gain, which can contribute to sagging. While breastfeeding may cause temporary changes in breast fullness, it isn’t the direct cause of sagging—factors like genetics, age, and overall skin elasticity play a bigger role.
Myth #9: You Can’t Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding
Fact: Breastfeeding is not a guaranteed form of birth control.
While exclusive breastfeeding can delay ovulation (a method called the Lactational Amenorrhea Method or LAM), it’s not 100% reliable. Many women ovulate before their first postpartum period, meaning pregnancy is still possible. If you're not ready for another baby, consider additional birth control options.
Myth #10: If You Don’t Feel a Letdown, You Aren’t Producing Milk
Fact: Some moms feel letdowns strongly, while others don’t feel them at all.
The letdown reflex is when your milk starts flowing, but not all moms feel it. Some experience tingling or warmth, while others don’t notice anything at all. As long as your baby is swallowing and gaining weight appropriately, your milk is flowing just fine!
Final Thoughts
There are so many myths about breastfeeding, but knowledge is power! By understanding the facts, you can confidently make the best decisions for you and your baby.
If you’re looking for support on your breastfeeding journey, Milky Mama offers lactation-boosting treats, drinks, and expert advice to help you every step of the way. You’ve got this, mama! 💜
