Almost everyone knows that breastfeeding is best for baby.  Why then do fewer than 75% of mothers nurse their newborn babies, and less than 30% do so exclusively.  By the time the child reaches 18 months, fewer than 5% are nursing at all.  Perhaps the reason is misinformation, calling for a debunking of common breastfeeding babies myths.  

Myth #1: Breastfeeding hurts.

There is some nipple tenderness involved with the initial nursing process.  Some women experience infections or cracking in the nipple.  Others have trouble with clogged milk ducts which, left untreated, can lead to mastitis.  Home care generally remedies these problems, with the occasional medical intervention needed.  

For the most part, nursing is a painless process, particularly after the initial two-month adjustment period.   

Myth #2: Nursing mothers are “stuck” home with the baby all the time.

Advancements in breast pumps allow easy and painless pumping for moms who leave the house without baby.  Properly stored breast milk can last up to a year and is easily warmed under hot running water for a caregiver to feed the baby.

Myth #3: Breastfeeding in public is illegal.

A mother can legally nurse wherever babies are allowed.  If a nursing mother is asked to refrain or leave, she can report the incident to agencies such as First Right or the National Alliance for Breastfeeding Advocacy.  Chic, modern nursing clothes and cover-ups help mothers remain discrete while feeding.  

Myth #4: Nursing mothers cannot drink alcohol or caffeine.

Caffeine and alcohol will both reach the baby, so a mother must keep both down to a minimum.  She should also nurse immediately before consuming and then hold off on nursing for another two or three hours.  She does not need to eliminate either from her diet, but must use sense and caution.

Myth #5: It doesn't pay to start if a mother will not continue long.

The longer the mother nurses, the more health and bonding benefits the baby and mother will receive.  The first two or three days are the most important, since that is when the baby receives colostrum.  Advantages continue indefinitely, but a mother does not have to stress about the length of time she will be able to nurse.  She should just realize that every little bit the baby receives is a health boost.

Breastfeeding is a feasible and beneficial choice for nearly all mothers, and a wonderful blessing for all babies.  No mother should let misinformation and myths prevent her from doing what is best for her and her baby.

For more information on breastfeeding your baby visit:  www.breastfeedingyourchild.com