Myths and Facts Related To Breastfeeding
Myths And Facts Related To Breastfeeding
Breast Milk is rich in nutrients and antibodies. It contains just the right amount of fats, sugars, water and proteins which are needed by the baby. Breastfeeding strengthens a baby’s immune system.
During initial few days after delivery a woman produces breast milk in excess. Also in India there are certain myths that are very often believed by women about breastfeeding, instead of just looking out for the real facts. For example
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Myth: Some say that first milk should not be given to children.
Whereas the
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Fact: It is a fact that first milk is one of the best things for a newborn. It protects the child from diseases, because it helps in the development of the newborn’s immune system.
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It has an effect that prompts the excretion of excess bilirubin from the newborn and decreases the chances of jaundice.
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Milk is rich in not only several essential vitamins but also antibodies, which are what help the newborn’s body to fight off commonly occurring infections.
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No artificial feed can substitute the first milk, with all of its natural benefits, and therefore it should be fed to the child after birth.
Breastfeeding
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Myth: The mother should not breastfeed if she is suffering from an infection.
Whereas the
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Fact: If the mother has an infection, the baby, would normally contract the infection through close contact with the mother.
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Myth: Infants need water in with being breastfed.
Whereas the
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Fact: Breast milk is already rich in water, therefore breastfed babies do not need additional amount of water.
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The decreased demand for milk from the baby leads to the decreased secretion of oxytocin and prolactin, which ultimately decreases the milk production in the lactating mother.
Breastfeeding
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Myth: Babies already know how to breastfeed.
Whereas the
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Fact: A baby is always born with infant reflexes which would help with breastfeeding. The reflex is the baby’s instinct to suck anything that touches the roof of their mouth. It is when a baby turns his head towards any stroking. The fact is that breastfeeding has to be learned and practiced by both baby and mommy.
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Myth: A woman has to drink milk in order to be able make milk.
Where the
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Fact: Drinking milk has nothing to do with a woman’s producing breast milk. Whether a mother drinks milk or not, it has nothing to do with her breast milk supply.
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Myth: When a woman becomes pregnant she must stop breastfeeding.
Whereas the
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Fact: Breastfeeding does not have any effect on the pregnancy or the quality of the breast milk. According to the WHO about six months of exclusive breastfeeding for newborns, is of utmost importance for a baby for his good health.
Breastfeeding
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Myth: Breastfeeding is responsible for changes in the shape and size of the breasts.
Whereas the
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Fact: The fact is that the hormonal changes during pregnancy lead to changes the look and feel of the breast. When a woman first begins breastfeeding, her breasts might become swollen with milk and might grow to larger in size.
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Myth: Nipples should be washed each time before feeding the baby.
Fact: Washing the nipple makes the area dry by removing all the naturally protective oils. Use of soap should be especially avoided around the nipple. Rubbing hind milk (the milk that comes at the end of the breast feed and is rich in fats) on the breast after feeding can keep the nipple moist and hydrated, as well as prevent soreness.
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Myth : A woman should not be breastfeeding if she is taking medications
Whereas the
Fact: Any medications during the time of breastfeeding, a woman should always take the advice of her pediatrician and lactation consultant.
