Myths about Breastfeeding

Despite the myths, everyone knows that breastfeeding is perfect for mother and baby. It seems that a lot of people only use those myths as more of an excuse than anything. It can also be quite saddening because some women will even let a myth get in the way of their choosing to breastfeed in fear that one or more of them might actually be true.

Here are just some of the common myths about breastfeeding that you may have heard:

1. Breastfeeding ties the mother down - This is not true by any means. It is actually much more convenient than bottle feeding. Think about it, all you need is a breastfeeding shawl and your baby. You can breastfeed your child anywhere, anytime. With bottles and formula, you have to continuously wash your bottles, pour the messy formula into the bottle which can sometimes end up getting spilled, (especially if you are traveling) sterilize your bottle nipples, heat the formula, and other very annoying things that are associated with bottle feeding.

2. Mothers should wash their nipples every time they are about to feed their baby - This is not true either. With breastfeeding, you do not have to worry about constant cleanliness and sanitizing like you do with bottle feeding. Bottles are very easily contaminated and are able to pass infection on to a baby in no time. The breast, however, protects against infection. Continuous washing of the nipples is not necessary. It can cause dry and cracked skin around the nipple and wash away the protective oils.

3. Some women just do not produce enough milk, or no milk at all - Can we say "excuses, excuses"? It is so saddening at how many mothers do not want to breastfeed their children just because they do not want to. What is even worse is that they come up with these bogus excuses for not doing it - and everyone believes them. Breastfeeding your child should be the number one priority on your list after you give birth to them. Women that state they are not producing enough milk or none at all are telling a lie. If they feel as if they cannot produce any milk at all, then there are pills that can be prescribed to them that will help with milk production. There are no excuses. Either way, women produce and can produce enough milk for their babies.

These are only a few of the several other myths associated with breastfeeding. When it comes down to it, every mother should breastfeed their babies. As stated earlier, there are absolutely no excuses for not doing it. Breastfeeding helps the mother's and the child's immune system beyond belief. It can help to relax and calm the mother and child. It strengthens the bond between mother and child, and there will never be a better time to experience the feeling of closeness that it gives.