Three Common Breastfeeding Myths

BREASTFEEDING WILL COME NATURALLY

Breastfeeding is an instinctual and natural biological process, but it is also a vastly complicated process. According to the CDC, 60% of parents do not breastfeed as long as they intended. A huge factor is the lack of support and also issues with the mechanics of it all. Some moms may be able to “figure it out” but those who struggle often feel shamed for seeking education or confused about what to do next. The truth is that lactation specialists exist because there is a need for support and help on the breastfeeding journey. For numerous reasons, you may need to seek these services, and that is okay. If you think you are ready to find the right lactation professional for you, I would check this out!

TRY HARD AND IT WILL WORK

“Oh, you aren’t trying hard enough”. This misconception also goes hand in hand with the previously mentioned myth. There is no reason to suffer while breastfeeding, ever. If there is pain, health concerns, or unhappiness/depression, trying harder will not simply be the answer. As suggested, professional assistance is the solution to getting an accurate, detailed plan of action for your individualized situation. No matter how hard you try, conditions beyond your immediate control such as:

Personal Situations:

    • Returning to work or school

    • Needing support with newborn care

    • Previous breastfeeding experiences that were not favorable

Medical issues:

    • Breast Surgeries

    • Starting birth control or other prescription medications

    • Breast hypoplasia or glandular dysfunction or other diagnoses

    • Extensive neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay will impact what your journey may look like

FIRST FEW DAYS YOU WILL NEED TO SUPPLEMENT

The saying that milk will not come in for a few days is a huge myth. Colostrum is produced while pregnant. Colostrum or “liquid gold” IS milk. This milk you make in those early days is packed with all the nutrients your baby needs. Colostrum may be expressed in small volume but it is enough to keep your newborn's tiny stomach full and content. Nursing every time your baby is hungry will help to ensure your baby is getting enough and will also build your milk supply. Changing the narrative that we do not produce milk in the first few days following birth will ensure that families feel confident in being all that their babies need.

TKia Robinson-Walterscheid