Newborn babies need breast milk as their primary source of nutrition to support their early growth and development. Besides being rich in nutrients, breast milk also offers protective benefits against various diseases and allergies.
In practice, much information about breastfeeding remains incompletely accurate. These myths can be confusing and even disruptive to breastfeeding. Therefore, it's important for mothers and families to understand which information is supported by medical facts.
This article will help you identify some common myths about breastfeeding and debunk the truth. With the right information, breastfeeding can go more smoothly and also help maintain the mother's physical and mental health.
10 Breastfeeding Myths and Facts
Many myths surrounding breastfeeding still circulate in society. Here are some important myths and facts about breastfeeding that you should understand:
- Myth: Breastfeeding is Easy
Breastfeeding is a natural process, but it's not always easy. Many mothers experience challenges, such as sore nipples, low milk supply, or even inflammation. It takes time, practice, and support to make breastfeeding successful. - Myth: Small Breasts Prevent Breastfeeding
Breast size does not determine the ability to produce milk. Milk production is influenced by the mammary glands, not the amount of fatty tissue in the breasts. - Myth: Breastfeeding Reduces Breast Firmness
Sagging breasts are caused more by age, weight changes, and genetics. Breastfeeding is not the main cause. - Myth: Stop Breastfeeding When Your Baby Has Diarrhea
Breast milk actually helps speed recovery in babies with diarrhea. The antibodies it contains can fight infection and prevent dehydration. - Myth: Resting your breasts will increase milk production.
Regularly breastfeeding or pumping can actually help maintain and increase milk production. Taking too long a break can decrease milk production. - Myth: You Can't Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding
Although breastfeeding can suppress ovulation, it's still possible for a mother to become pregnant. If you're not planning on having another child in the near future, it's still recommended to use contraception. - Myth: Bottle-feeding causes babies to stop breastfeeding.
As long as it's done with the right approach, babies can continue to breastfeed directly or bottle-feed. Bottle-feeding can be introduced between two and six weeks of age, without needing to stop breastfeeding. - Myth: Liquid Breast Milk Is Bad
Breast milk actually has two phases: the thinner foremilk and the thicker hindmilk. Both are equally important and contain the nutrients a baby needs. - Myth: Breastfed Children Are Fatter and Smarter
Breast milk does support a child's growth and development, but weight and intelligence are influenced by many other factors, including genetics and environmental stimulation. - Myth: Breastfeeding is Always Painful
Pain at the beginning of breastfeeding is common, but it shouldn't last long. If the pain persists, there may be a problem with the latch or breastfeeding position, and it's best to consult a healthcare professional.
If in doubt, see a doctor immediately.
Before believing any information about breastfeeding or infant health, verify its accuracy from a trusted source. Avoid immediately accepting information that hasn't been scientifically proven, especially if it's based on personal opinion or popular myths.
If you feel confused or unsure, don't hesitate to consult a doctor directly, especially a pediatrician or lactation consultant. This way, you can receive treatment and advice tailored to both the mother and baby's condition.
If the mother's breasts feel sore accompanied by worrying symptoms or the baby experiences worrying symptoms, for optimal healing conditions, immediately consult a doctor.
Article written by Dr. Toni Kurniawan, Sp.A (Pediatrician at EMC Cibitung Hospital).