1. Breastfeeding will ruin
my breasts.
False: breastfeeding does not affect the shape of your breasts.
Your breasts may become engorged while
breastfeeding, but your breasts will return to their usual shape once you have
weaned feedings. Aging and gravity are the culprits of changing breast shape!
2. Breastfeeding will make
my nipples sore.
True and False: Breastfeeding may make your nipples sore, but there are things you can do to
prevent or solve the soreness. Sore nipples may happen when the baby is not
latched on properly. You can seek help and support from a lactation counselor or support group.
3. Breastfeeding may help
you lose your baby weight.
True! Breastfeeding burns extra calories
(up to 500 a day), helping you return to your pre-pregnancy weight in a gradual
and healthy way. Remember pregnancy weight was not gained overnight so it
will not disappear quickly. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and to
wait until you feel ready and for your health care provider’s OK to purposely
lose weight.
4. You must drink milk to
make milk.
False: You do not need to drink milk to make milk. However it is important
for you to maintain a healthy diet of vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins and
water. These are the only nutrients you need to produce milk. If you are
concerned about getting enough calcium, you can drink milk or eat non-dairy
foods that contain calcium such as dark green vegetables or nuts.
5. My milk isn’t good
enough.
False: Breast is still best.
Breast milk composition changes within the feeding, within the day and over the
course of lactation, but breast milk has higher amounts of nutrients than other
foods or supplements, including formula. Your breast milk can help protect your
baby from things like diarrhea and infections, and help brain development.
These are the first 5 myths
debunked. Stay tuned next week for more.
Did you have an assumption about
breastfeeding that was false? Or did someone give you advice that helped? We’d
love to hear from you.
Tags: breastfeeding, engorged, feeding, lactation, losing weight, sore nipples, support
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