Debunking Breastfeeding Myths—Guiding Indian Parents With Facts 🤱

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For new mothers, the breastfeeding journey is often filled with advice from every corner. While well-intentioned, much of this guidance is based on long-standing myths rather than scientific fact. Using insights from trusted sources like UNICEF and health experts, let’s clarify some of the most common misconceptions to support mothers with accurate information. :folded_hands:

Myth 1: The first milk (colostrum) is impure and should be discarded.
Fact: This is a particularly harmful myth in India. Colostrum, the thick, yellowish first milk, is often called “liquid gold”. It is the baby’s first immunization, packed with antibodies and nutrients that protect your newborn from disease. :flexed_biceps:

Myth 2: Pain during breastfeeding is normal and to be expected. :sad_but_relieved_face:
Fact: Breastfeeding should not be a painful experience. According to UNICEF, while some initial tenderness is possible, persistent pain or sore nipples are typically a sign that the baby is not latching correctly. Seeking help from a lactation consultant to improve positioning can resolve this issue.

Myth 3: A mother must stop breastfeeding if she is sick with a cold or fever. :sneezing_face:
Fact: It is safe and recommended to continue breastfeeding when you are ill. As experts explain, your body produces antibodies to fight the infection :shield:, and these are passed directly to your baby through your milk, helping to protect them from getting sick.

Myth 4: Mothers with small breasts cannot produce enough milk. :thinking:
Fact: Breast size does not correlate with milk production. UNICEF clarifies that breast size is determined by the amount of fat tissue, not the milk-producing glandular tissue. Milk supply operates on a “demand and supply” basis—the more frequently you nurse, the more milk your body will produce.

Myth 5: Breastfed babies need to be given extra water, especially in summer. :droplet:
Fact: Exclusive breastfeeding provides all the hydration a baby needs for the first six months. Breast milk is composed of about 88% water, which is more than enough to quench a baby’s thirst, even in hot weather. Giving water to young infants can interfere with milk intake and is not necessary.

Let’s empower mothers with science—not superstition. Trusted guidance from organizations like UNICEF, Breastfeeding Support for Indian Mothers (BSIM), and lactation consultants can make your breastfeeding journey positive and rewarding. :heart:

Other than these, if you come across any such myths, please do share..

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Myth: Breastfeeding only benefits the baby. Fact: Breastfeeding also reduces the mother’s risk of certain cancers, improves postpartum recovery, and increases bonding

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So many new moms struggle because of wrong advice passed down through generations. It’s so important to share science backed facts like these to support and empower mothers on their breastfeeding journey.

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Beautifully explained. We need more of this kind of awareness to support new moms.

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Beautifully explained one more myth is breast feeding women cant take medicine many medication are safe to take while Breast feeding consult with the doctor before taking

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Very well explained, I appreciate it!

Myth: Consuming cold foods like ice cream or cold drinks during breastfeeding causes cold or fever in the baby.

Fact: Cold foods do not alter breast milk temperature or transmit illness. Infant colds and fevers are caused by viral infections, not by the mother’s diet.

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Well explained.

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Informative

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This is such an important post thank you for sharing it.

  • I didn’t know colostrum was so valuable for newborns.
  • It’s sad how myths can misguide new mothers during such a sensitive time.
  • I’m glad to learn that even small breasts can produce enough milk—it’s all about demand and supply.
  • The part about continuing breastfeeding during illness was new to me too.
    Science-based support like this can really help mothers feel more confident.