Many new mothers are given false information about breastfeeding. Discover the facts about common breastfeeding myths.
Breastfeeding Will Hurt
No. You may have some discomfort as you and your baby get into a routine and learn how to work with each other. However, you should not have any pain if your baby is latched on correctly. It is true that in the beginning, the first few seconds after your baby latches on may be painful. If that does not go away, then your baby is not latched on correctly, and you will need to try again.
I Cannot Continue To Breastfeed After Returning To Work
You can continue to breastfeed after returning to work. Employers are required by law to provide a comfortable, private location for their employees to pump breastmilk during the workday. Many mothers continue to breastfeed successfully while working well past their baby’s first year of life. Quality daycare providers should allow breastfeeding mothers to visit during the day to feed their babies if they work nearby.
I Won’t Be Able To Breastfeed In Public
While many new mothers are initially uncomfortable breastfeeding in public, it is certainly possible. You can maintain your privacy by covering up with a blanket or nursing shield. Many stores and public buildings offer nursing lounges for mothers to feed their babies in private. Once you establish a comfortable breastfeeding routine, nursing in public will seem less daunting.
People Will Judge Me For Breastfeeding My Baby
Some breastfeeding myths are false, but this isn’t one of them. The sad truth of it is, some people will judge you for breastfeeding your baby. However, some people will judge you for not breastfeeding your baby. Ignore all of those people. The large majority of family and friends are likely to be highly supportive of you, whatever choice you may make.
I Won’t Get Any Sleep If I Breastfeed
You’ll need to get up in the middle of the night to nurse if you are solely breastfeeding. As your baby grows, though, you can replace one feeding a night with pumped breastmilk and have your partner help. Many mothers find it easier to co-sleep with a breastfeeding baby or keep their crib in the same room.
As you grow more comfortable with breastfeeding, you can often nurse while lying in bed. Any newborn is going to wake up during the night, whether they are breastfed or not. Having to go to the kitchen and make a bottle is more disruptive than rolling over in bed to nurse.
I Will Never Get A Break From My Baby If I Breastfeed
You are more tied to your baby if you breastfeed. Many mothers, though, find that the extra bond they feel with their breastfed baby is well worth it. Pumping can help you to have a night away from your baby, with the added benefit of knowing that your baby is still receiving breastmilk while you are away. Breastfed babies have a healthier immune system than formula-fed babies and will likely be less demanding.
