Myth: Breastfeeding is easy and natural, so there are no issues to worry about.
Fact: While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come easily for mothers and can involve challenges such as latching difficulties, pain, and supply issues. Luckily, there are lots of ways you can get support in Oldham:
- Breastfeeding Peer Support Groups in Oldham – Home Start host website
Myth: Breastfeeding mothers can’t take medication while nursing.
Fact: Many medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, and your GP can help determine which medications are safe to take.
Myth: Breastfeeding mothers can’t drink alcohol.
Fact: While it’s recommended to limit alcohol intake, having an occasional drink does not usually harm the baby if precautions are taken. Wait at least two to three hours for every drink you have before attempting to feed your baby.
Myth: Breastfeeding is only for babies and not necessary for toddlers.
Fact: Breastfeeding provides many benefits for toddlers, including nutrition, immunity, and comfort. Feed as long as you are comfortable.
Myth: Breasts that are leaking milk mean there’s too much milk and the baby can’t handle it.
Fact: Leaking milk is common and does not mean there’s an issue with milk supply or the baby’s ability to handle it.
Myth: Breastfeeding must happen on a strict schedule.
Fact: Feeding on demand allows a mother’s milk supply to adapt to the baby’s needs and promotes a strong bond between mother and baby
Myth: Breastfeeding will prevent pregnancy.
Fact: While exclusive breastfeeding can act as a form of contraception as you’re unlikely to have periods during this time it’s not a reliable or consistent method of contraception and certainly not as reliable as other methods of birth control.
Myth: Breastfeeding will cause a baby to be too dependent on the mother.
Fact: Breastfeeding is a natural and healthy way for a baby to bond with their mother and form a secure attachment:
Myth: Breastfed babies sleep through the night more often.
Fact: Breastfed babies may still wake up frequently during the night, as this is a normal pattern for most babies.
Myth: Breastfeeding in public is inappropriate.
Fact: Breastfeeding is a natural way of feeding your baby. It is legally protected and can be done in public without shame or embarrassment. The stigma that was felt by some mothers in the past has reduced enormously, and it is now so common that most people won’t even realise you’re doing it. Never feel embarrassed to feed your baby.
Myth: Breastfeeding is painful and uncomfortable.
Fact: While breastfeeding may have a learning curve, it should not be painful or uncomfortable. Your GP or health visitor can help you address any issues or you can get support from the Home Start Host website:
- Breastfeeding Peer Support Groups in Oldham – Home Start host website
Myth: Only mothers with a certain body type can successfully breastfeed.
Fact: Breastfeeding is possible for mothers of all body types, and milk supply is not related to breast size or shape.
If you’re not sure about whether to breastfeed your child, take a look at this Go-to Guide to Breastfeeding