Expert insights for Breastfeeding Awareness Month

For many women, breastfeeding is an electrifying journey that deepens their bond with their newborn while providing them with the nutrition and care they need.

However, it is common for recent mothers to feel overwhelmed when they first start. Despite what some may believe, breastfeeding does not always come naturally, it takes practice, and the first few days can be hard. Misconceptions about breastfeeding often discourage women from trying.

This month, Breastfeeding Awareness Month, Avery Newborn, an internationally certified lactation consultant at Nourished juvenile from Atlanta shares facts that aid debunk these myths.

Myth #1: Formula milk is as good as breast milk.

Fact: Both formula and breast milk contain enough calories and vitamins to aid babies grow and develop. Comparing them would be like comparing apples to oranges.

So what’s the main difference? As Newborn says, “Formula is safe and sound. Breast milk is amazing.” The main difference lies in the origin of the milk used in formula. Unlike breast milk, formula comes from other mammals, such as cows or goats. This means that the milk is naturally designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of the animal, not a human baby. Because each mammal has slightly different requirements, the composition of their milk reflects this, making it necessary to modify formula to better meet the needs of infants.

“We’ve learned through science how to modify formula and make it better and safer for human babies, but it will never be able to fully replicate human milk because it doesn’t come from humans,” Newborn said. Medical Journal.

“Unlike formula, breast milk is a living thing. It’s a animated substance that changes to meet the specific needs of a growing baby, not only to aid protect the baby from disease, but even throughout the day to aid deliver the right hormones at the right time, and throughout the year to accommodate the baby’s growing nutritional needs during infancy and beyond, to make it a product that is perfectly suited to the needs of human infants,” she explained.

Myth #2: Breastfeeding mothers should stop breastfeeding if they get unwell

Fact: Continuing to breastfeed may be beneficial for your baby.

“When you’re unwell, your body produces antibodies to fight infection, and these are passed on in your milk. Even if you’re unwell, your milk helps protect your baby by strengthening their immune system with these significant antibodies. Plus, your baby is likely to be exposed to your illness simply by being around you, so continuing to breastfeed provides them with the protective benefits of your milk,” Newborn said.

However, if you have more sedate health concerns or concerns about a specific situation, it is always best to consult your doctor.

Myth No. 3 Breastfeeding mothers should follow a special diet and eat only basic foods

Fact: Breastfeeding does not mean that mothers have to follow a restrictive diet. A varied and tasty diet, including spices and a variety of foods, can benefit both the baby and the mother.

The misconception that gassy foods in adults, especially those high in fiber, affect breast milk and cause discomfort in infants is common. However, fiber is not digested and does not pass into breast milk, so it does not directly cause gas in the baby.

“Spices and different foods can change the taste of breast milk, helping to expose your baby to a range of tastes and encouraging them to develop a more varied palate. Plus, a varied diet provides key vitamins and nutrients that support your health and well-being. So savor meals and this special time with your recent baby,” Newborn said.

Myth #4: Breastfeeding is always painful.

Fact: Modern mothers may feel some discomfort at first, but this does not mean that it is biologically normal.

Pain is a sign that something is wrong. It often indicates problems with attachment, nipple tenderness, positioning, or even underlying health conditions like infections. Addressing these factors can aid ensure a more comfortable breastfeeding experience.

“Because latching is not a one-size-fits-all process, what works for one mother-baby pair may not work for another. If you are experiencing pain, it is a sign that adjustments to your latch or other factors may need to be considered. Using an experienced lactation consultant can aid ensure that breastfeeding is comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your baby,” Newborn said.

Myth #5: Exercise affects the taste of breast milk.

Fact: Moderate exercise benefits both mother and baby. Changes in breast milk composition, particularly the boost in lactic acid after vigorous exercise, are ephemeral.

“Studies, including double-blind studies, show that these miniature changes in composition do not affect a baby’s ability or willingness to feed. The lactic acid in breast milk breaks down quickly, so any effects are ephemeral and safe and sound for the baby. Many mammals exercise and feed their juvenile immediately afterward, showing that this is a natural and manageable process,” Newborn explained.

“If you are concerned, however, you can plan your training and feedings to keep your baby content. If your baby becomes cranky, remember that it is likely ephemeral and everything will be fine,” she added.

Myth #6 Many mothers are unable to produce enough milk

Fact: Most mothers produce enough milk for their babies.

According to Newborn, a common misconception among mothers is that their baby is crying because they are hungry. While some women may have difficulty producing milk, most mothers produce enough milk for their babies. Often, a baby’s cry is misinterpreted as a sign of hunger, causing unnecessary worry and doubt. In reality, babies cry for many reasons, such as discomfort or a need for attention, not just hunger.

“If concerns about your milk supply persist, consulting with a lactation specialist can provide valuable guidance and support. They can aid you address the root cause of your baby’s discomfort and give you the confidence that your body is able to nourish and support your recent baby,” Newborn said.

Myth #7 You can’t take any medications while breastfeeding

Fact: Most medications do not pose a threat to the mother’s health and can be taken during breastfeeding. There are often effective substitutes for those medications that are not safe and sound.

The most significant thing is to consult with an experienced doctor who can advise on safe and sound options and dosage.

“Using trusted online resources like LactMed and InfantRisk can aid you verify information and explore safe and sound alternatives that you can then discuss with your doctor. With the right guidance and resources, you can effectively manage your health while continuing to breastfeed,” Newborn said.