Breastfeeding is an entirely natural process that is (unfortunately) surrounded by many debates and discussions. With too many people having too many opinions and the internet being flooded with all types of suggestions, it can be quite confusing for new mothers!

Regardless of all the confusion, one thing is for sure! Breast milk is essential for an infant baby. It consists of all the nutrients required for the baby’s growth and acts as an immunity booster for the newborn.

In this post, we will debunk some popular myths surrounder breast milk:

Breastfeeding is a painful process

Although it is completely normal to feel some discomfort initially, breastfeeding is not supposed to be painful. If it is hurting, then it means that the baby is not latching to the breast properly. In this case, you should remove the baby and start again.

I must eat only bland food while breastfeeding

Many people believe that eating spicy and strong-flavoured food while breastfeeding will upset the baby’s stomach as it will get transferred through your breast milk. But this is entirely false. You should not alter your diet while breastfeeding as no flavours reach your baby through breast milk.

Small breasts mean lesser milk supply

Let’s put it - SIZE DOES NOT Matter! There is no connection between the size of the breast and the amount of milk it produces. Milk production is solely dependent on the glandular tissue in the breasts. Some small tissues might have a lot of tissues, while some large tissues might not have much.

I am sick, I should not breastfeed

It is absolutely okay to continue breastfeeding while you have a cold or the flu. It actually helps protect the baby from illness. The germ-fighting antibodies get transferred to the baby every time they are nursed.

Breastfeeding will make my breasts saggy

Droopy breasts are a result of pregnancy and not primarily related to breastfeeding. Hormonal changes cause the ligaments underneath the beasts to loosen and stretch. And as you gain weight during pregnancy, your breasts also become heavier and larger. And once you have given birth, they might become swollen with milk and grow larger. However, they do diminish in size once you have established a feeding routine. They return to their pre-pregnancy size eventually.

I need to nurse every hour because I am not producing enough milk

Your baby needs to be fed every 2-3 hours because breast milk is easily digested. If the baby is gaining weight, wetting enough diapers, and sleeping well, then the baby is receiving enough breast milk.

Breast massages and special soups can increase breast milk production

Breast massage can be effective in unclogging the milk ducts but they do not stimulate milk production. Milk production actually depends on supply and demand. And there are no magic ‘soups’ that can help boost breast milk production. It is advisable to keep yourself hydrated and well-nourished to be able to supply enough nutrients to the baby.

You can also consider having lactation boosters which can help increase milk supply while breastfeeding. They are made up of ingredients that act as supplements to increase breast milk. Breast milk increasing powders also help manage postpartum weight, stress and anxiety.