I have breastfed three babies. Each experience has been different from the others, and the more I have done it, the more I know. It's crazy to me how much misinformation is out there about breastfeeding, especially since mothers have been doing it for all of time. (You'd think we'd know the "right" way to do it by now.)
2. Most women can't produce enough milk.
In fact, most women can produce more than enough milk. Poor milk supply is almost always the result of infrequent feedings or poor latch.
3. The amount you pump is equal to the amount your baby can get from nursing.
Not true at all. Even the best hospital-grade pumps cannot drain as much milk from the breast as a baby can. A good way to see how much your baby is getting is to take them to a clinic to be weighed, (no clothing, no diaper,) feed them, then weigh them again. Many lactation consultants can do this at their office.
4. Breastfeeding isn't the norm.
For whatever reason, breastfeeding has become a hot button issue, making it seem tabboo. In reality, over 85% of new mothers breastfeed their babies.
5. Breastfed babies can go 2-4 hours between feedings.
In reality, some babies eat every 30 minutes (cluster feeding!) while some can go even 5 to 6 hours between feedings. It's up to you to read your babies cues and feed them when they are hungry.
6. Frequent nursing doesn't allow your breasts to fill up with milk.
This is probably the biggest misconception about breastfeeding. When your baby sucks at the breast, it tells your body to produce more milk. When you take a break, it tells your body to slow down. Trying to stretch out feedings can actually lead to poor milk production.
7. Only moms who give birth vaginally can breastfeed.
While it's true that babies and mothers are given a happy dose of hormones when baby travels through the birth canal, c-section moms and even adoptive mothers can still breastfeed.
