Breastfeeding is one of the most natural acts, yet it’s often shrouded in outdated advice, old wives’ tales, and pressure that can cause undue stress for new mothers. Separating breastfeeding facts vs myths is essential for a confident and successful nursing journey.
Here is a look at the most common nursing myths and the reliable breastfeeding truth behind them.
Myth 1: Breastfeeding is Supposed to Be Easy and Painless
The Truth: While it is natural, breastfeeding is a learned skill for both mother and baby. It takes practice and patience. Latching issues are incredibly common at first, and some initial discomfort is normal. However, significant or prolonged pain (pinching, crushing, or toe-curling pain) is NOT normal and is usually a sign of a poor latch, tongue tie, or another issue.
The Fact: Seek support! A consultation with a certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can quickly correct latch issues, check for structural problems, and save your journey from unnecessary pain.
Myth 2: Small Breasts Produce Less Milk
The Truth: Breast size is determined by the amount of fatty tissue, which has absolutely no bearing on the amount of glandular tissue that produces milk.
The Fact: Milk supply is governed by demand. The size of your breasts (whether small or large) is irrelevant to your ability to produce a full and healthy milk supply. What matters most is frequent and effective milk removal.
Myth 3: You Have to Eat a Special Diet (Or Avoid Everything)
The Truth: You don’t need a high-fat, high-calorie, or restrictive diet. While some cultures promote specific “lactation” foods, the most important thing for supply is hydration and a balanced, nutritious diet to support your overall health.
The Fact: Unless your baby has a diagnosed allergy or a documented reaction, there is no need to proactively cut out foods like dairy, spicy food, or gassy vegetables. Very little of what you eat actually transfers to the milk and affects the baby.
Myth 4: Your Milk Isn’t “Good Enough” in the Early Days
The Truth: Your body produces colostrum for the first few days—a thick, yellowish, highly concentrated substance often called “liquid gold.” This milk is exactly what your baby needs.
The Fact: Colostrum is specifically designed to be easily digestible and packed with incredible antibodies, immune factors, and nutrients, acting as the baby’s first immunization. The small amount is perfectly sized for a newborn’s tiny stomach.
Myth 5: You Must Nurse on a Strict Schedule
The Truth: Trying to put a newborn on a rigid schedule can actually harm your milk supply and lead to a hungry baby.
The Fact: The key to establishing a robust supply is feeding on demand, which means offering the breast whenever the baby shows hunger cues (rooting, licking lips, fidgeting)—not just when the clock says so. Frequent feeding signals your body to make more milk.
Myth 6: You Can’t Breastfeed If You’re Sick
The Truth: Unless you have a severe, specific illness (like HIV or active, untreated tuberculosis), continuing to breastfeed is usually recommended, even with a cold, flu, or stomach bug.
The Fact: By the time you show symptoms of an illness, your baby has already been exposed. Your body produces specific antibodies in response to the illness and passes them directly to your baby through the milk, protecting them or lessening the severity of their symptoms.
Medical Disclaimer
This blog post provides information for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your pediatrician, a certified lactation consultant, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making any changes to your child’s care or your feeding plan. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.