Myth: It’s normal for breastfeeding to hurt.

Answer: BUSTED!

The bottom line is that breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt. Some tenderness during the first few days of breastfeeding is fairly common; however, this should be temporary and last only a few days. This discomfort should never be bad enough to cause a mother to dread nursing. Any pain that is more than mild is abnormal and is almost always due to the baby latching on poorly. Any nipple pain that is not getting better by day 3 or 4 or lasts beyond 5 or 6 days should not be ignored. Consulting with a board-certified lactation consultant can help with these situations.

Visit MissouriFamilies.org for additional information on the benefits of breastfeeding and feeding young children.

You can also contact a breastfeeding expert for more information.

Guest contributor: Danielle Pelham, Dietetic Intern MDHSS
Reviewed by: Damaris Karanja, MA, Nutrition and Health Education Specialist, St. Louis County, University of Missouri Extension, Karanjad@missouri.edu

Myth: Many women do not produce enough milk to breastfeed.

Answer: BUSTED!

It is a common concern for many mothers that they aren't producing enough milk, especially during the first two weeks at home. However, most women produce more than enough milk. One reason that the baby does not get the milk that is available is that he or she may be poorly latched onto the breast. It is important to make sure that the baby is latched on properly in order to get the milk.

It is also important to know the signs to look for to make certain that your baby is getting enough. Some signs include:

• Your baby has frequent wet and dirty diapers. The first few days after giving birth, your colostrum is low in volume but high in nutrients, so your baby will only have 1-2 wet/dirty diapers per day. After your milk supply increases, your baby will have 6-8 wet and 4+ dirty diapers per day until he is older than one month.
• Your baby appears satisfied after feeding.
• Your baby is gaining weight.

You may find it helpful to use a checklist about feeding and diaper changes. You should also have phone numbers of lactation consultants in your area that you can consult with to address your specific needs or concerns. You can also contact a breastfeeding expert for more information.

Visit MissouriFamilies.org for additional information on the benefits of breastfeeding and feeding young children.

Guest contributor: Danielle Pelham, Dietetic Intern MDHSS
Reviewed & submitted by: Damaris Karanja, MA, Nutrition and Health Education Specialist, St. Louis County, University of Missouri Extension, Karanjad@missouri.edu

Myth: My breast milk won't be good because I don't eat healthy foods.

Answer: BUSTED!

You do not have to eat the perfect diet in order to make superior milk for your baby. Many women in underdeveloped countries with restricted diets make superior milk for their babies. The body can sacrifice and still make superior milk without the intake of a perfect diet.

For more information on the benefits of breastfeeding, see Breastfeeding benefits baby and mother on the MissouriFamilies website.

To contact a breastfeeding expert go to http://americas.iblce.org/find-an-ibclc

Contributors: Mary Keels, IBCLC, Dietetic Intern MDHSS; Denise Schmitz, M.A., R.D., MU Extension Nutrition & Health Education Specialist, schmitzda@missouri.edu

Myth: Modern formulas are almost the same as breast milk.

Answer: Busted!

Both breast milk and infant formula will help your baby grow. However, breast milk is the best first food for babies, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Breast milk gives your baby more than just good nutrition. It also provides important substances to fight infection. Deciding to breastfeed can give your baby the best possible start in life. Breastfeeding benefits you and your baby in many ways. It provides warmth and closeness. The physical contact helps create a special bond between you and your baby.

For more information, see the breastfeeding benefits article on the MissouriFamilies website.

Contributor: Damaris Karanja, MA, Nutrition and Health Education Specialist, St. Louis County, University of Missouri Extension, Karanjad@missouri.edu