Breastfeeding is one of the most personal choices you can make for your growing family. Preparing yourself with the facts as you first navigate your breastfeeding journey can help set you up for success.
“Our bodies know how to nourish our new babies,” says Lysanne Loucel, MBA, IBCLC, board-certified lactation consultant at CentraState’s Lactation Center. “However, sometimes extra support is needed—and that includes getting the right information to breastfeeding moms.”
Lysanne dispels some common myths about breastfeeding below.
Myth #1: Your milk doesn’t come in right away.
THE FACTS: Your body starts preparing even before baby is born. At about 16 weeks of pregnancy, your body starts producing a substance called colostrum. This thick, yellow, oil-like “first milk” is packed with nutrients that your baby needs for her first few days of life. About three to six days after birth, you’ll produce mature breast milk specific for your baby that fits her growing needs.
Myth #2: Breastfeeding is very painful.
THE FACTS: You may experience some discomfort during the first two weeks of breastfeeding as you both learn to work together, but only for a few minutes as your baby begins to nurse. If the discomfort lasts longer than a few minutes, or continues past a few weeks, speak to a lactation consultant who can help identify the cause and its solutions.
Myth #3: Breastfed babies eat more often—something must be wrong with milk supply.
THE FACTS: Some breastfeeding babies do eat frequently. Frequency and duration of feeds usually have nothing to do with milk supply. In fact, most breastfeeding mothers make enough milk for their babies, but other issues like a poor latch may prevent proper stimulation for an adequate supply of milk. A lactation consultant can help with this process.
Myth #4: Breastfeeding mothers shouldn’t get the COVID-19 vaccine.
THE FACTS: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that those who are pregnant or breastfeeding can get the COVID-19 vaccine. We know breastfeeding provides antibodies to baby, helping to boost his immune system. Recent studies show that when pregnant or breastfeeding moms get the COVID-19 vaccine, baby may benefit from those antibodies, too.
For more information about breastfeeding services at CentraState, visit centrastatematernity.com/breastfeeding or call 732-303-5258
