Breastfeeding: Myths vs Facts

Breastfeeding Mother: I’ve heard that the thick yellow milk right after birth is bad for the baby and should be thrown away. Is that true?

Health Expert: Not at all! The thick yellow milk which comes for the first two days of the birth is called colostrum. It is very rich in  antibodies and nutrients that are crucial for your baby’s immune system and overall health. This is also known as the  first immunisation of the baby, because it contains antibodies of all the diseases mother had suffered throughout her life and these antibodies protect the baby against those illnesses. It is very high in protein content, therefore a very small amount like in drops is sufficient for the baby. So, please don’t throw away but feed colostrum to your baby.

Breastfeeding Mother: I’m worried that breastfeeding on demand might lead to overfeeding. Is that a concern?

Health Expert: Actually, breastfeeding on demand is a great way to feed your baby. For a small baby you can not time the feeds because in mother’s womb the child is getting 24 hr nutrition through placenta. When the baby comes out, we have to feed him as and when he demands. Gradually the baby regulates the feeds himself.

Breastfeeding Mother: Should I stop breastfeeding if I’m sick to avoid passing my illness to the baby?

Health Expert: There is no need to stop breastfeeding if you are sick. When you are sick your body produces antibodies against that illness. Those antibodies are secreted in the breastmilk and passed on to your baby when you breastfeed the baby. These antibodies protect the baby against that illness.

Breastfeeding Mother: I’ve heard breastfeeding isn’t a reliable method of birth control. Is that true?

Health Expert: Yes, it is true to some extent. If you are exclusively breastfeeding your baby ( not even water is given) and you have not menstruated it is quite reliable. Otherwise you  If you to have to consider other birth control methods if you want to avoid pregnancy.

Breastfeeding Mother: Do babies not need breast milk once they start eating solids?

Health Expert:Solids are introduced around 6 months of age. Breastfeeding should be continued at least till 2 years of age or even beyond. While on breastfeeding, the child does not need artificial milk.

Breastfeeding Mother: Is formula as good as breast milk?

Health Expert:No, formula is not as good as breastmilk, not even equal to breastmilk. Formula is animal milk dried and packed in the containers. Actually it is meant for animal babies. Breastmilk is specific to your baby. Breast milk is the appropriate diet for your baby. It contains all the nutrients and changes with the age of the baby. Breast milk has unique benefits, like special antibodies and nutrients, that formula can’t fully match. It is sterile and live fluid while formula could be contaminated and lead to infections. Breastfeeding reduces the incidence of ovarian and breast cancers in the mother.

Breastfeeding Mother: Do I have to stick to bland foods while breastfeeding?

Health Expert: Not at all! A varied and balanced diet is best. It ensures you and your baby get all the nutrients you need. But if you notice any problem in the baby after a particular food, that can be avoided.

Breastfeeding Mother: Should I stop breastfeeding if my baby has diarrhea?

Health Expert: No, rather you should breastfeed more frequently to keep the bay hydrated. It  provides the nutrients needed to recover.

Breastfeeding Mother: Can I take medicine while breastfeeding?

Health Expert: Most  medications are safe. There are a very few medicines which need to be avoided.  Just check with your healthcare provider to make sure you’re choosing the right ones. You can take the medicine after the breastfeed to decrease the concentration of the medicine in the breastmilk.

Breastfeeding Mother: Is breastfeeding in public considered rude?

Health Expert: Not at all. Breastfeeding is a natural way of feeding your baby. Mother and the baby have the right to feed anytime and anywhere. People should be supporting mothers breastfeeding in public and get used to it.

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Dr. Rita Gupta
Lactation Expert
Founder Member of BPNI
National Trainer, BPNI