Breastfeeding Myths Busted // What Every New Mum Should Know

Becoming a new mum is both exciting and overwhelming. Among the many decisions a new mother faces, breastfeeding often tops the list. While it’s a natural and healthy choice, it’s also surrounded by many myths and misconceptions. These can confuse, worry, or even discourage mothers who want to breastfeed. So let’s bust some of the most common breastfeeding myths and reveal the truth every new mum should know.

//Myth 1: Breastfeeding comes naturally to every mother and baby

Truth: While breastfeeding is a natural process, it doesn’t always happen easily or immediately. Many mothers and babies take time to get the hang of it. Latching issues, sore nipples, and milk supply concerns are common in the beginning. Breastfeeding is a learned skill—for both mum and baby. It often requires patience, practice, and sometimes support from lactation consultants or peer groups. So if you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone—and it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

//Myth 2: You won’t produce enough milk at first

Truth: Newborns have tiny stomachs—about the size of a cherry on the first day—so they don’t need much milk initially. Colostrum, the thick yellowish milk produced in the first few days, is full of antibodies and nutrients and is all your baby needs at that time. Frequent nursing signals your body to produce more milk. The more your baby feeds, the more milk your body makes. Trust the process and your baby’s cues rather than how much milk you can pump or see.

//Myth 3: You must stop breastfeeding if you’re sick or on medication

Truth: In most cases, it’s safe to continue breastfeeding while sick. In fact, your body produces antibodies that can help protect your baby. As for medications, many are compatible with breastfeeding, but it’s important to consult your doctor or a lactation specialist. Suddenly stopping breastfeeding due to illness can lead to engorgement or a drop in supply. Unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider, continuing to nurse is usually the best course.

//Myth 4: If your baby feeds often, you don’t have enough milk

Truth: Frequent feeding doesn’t mean low milk supply. Breast milk is digested quickly, so it’s normal for newborns to feed every 1.5 to 3 hours. Cluster feeding—where babies feed very frequently for a few hours—is also normal and helps boost your supply. Watch for signs that your baby is getting enough milk: steady weight gain, wet diapers (at least 6–8 a day after the first week), and contentment after feeding.

//Myth 5: You can’t breastfeed if you have small breasts or flat nipples

Truth: Breast size has nothing to do with milk production. Small or large, all breasts contain the same basic milk-producing structures. Women with flat or inverted nipples can usually breastfeed successfully too, sometimes with minor adjustments or the help of a lactation consultant. The key factors in successful breastfeeding are a good latch, skin-to-skin contact, and frequent feeding.

//Myth 6: Formula is just as good as breast milk

Truth: Formula can provide the necessary nutrients for babies who are not breastfed, but breast milk is uniquely tailored to a baby’s needs. It contains living cells, antibodies, enzymes, and hormones that protect against infections and diseases. It also changes in composition as your baby grows and even during a single feeding. While formula is a safe alternative, the immune benefits of breast milk can’t be replicated.

//Myth 7: You need to follow a strict diet while breastfeeding

Truth: While it’s important to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, you don’t need to be perfect. Most mothers can eat their regular foods while breastfeeding. There are very few foods that absolutely must be avoided. Some babies may be sensitive to certain foods like dairy, but this is not the norm. Staying hydrated and eating enough calories to support milk production is what matters most.

Final Thoughts

Breastfeeding is deeply personal and often emotional. Myths and misinformation can add unnecessary stress to what should be a bonding and nourishing experience. Every mother and baby are different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Seek support, stay informed, and trust your instincts.

Remember, whether you choose to breastfeed, pump, supplement, or formula-feed, what matters most is that your baby is loved, fed, and thriving—and that you’re supported in your journey as a mother.

// Dr. Krishna Karthik S.V.L, Specialist Pediatrician, Aster Clinic, Tecom (Barsha Heights)