Top 8 Breast Feeding Myths And Facts

When it comes to breastfeeding, the most common advice overwhelmingly supports it—globally, it's considered highly beneficial for both mother and baby.

However, many modern women, especially working mothers, are exploring alternatives to breastfeeding. Some also hold concerns, such as breast milk being low in iron or the belief that breastfeeding should be avoided if the mother is unwell or on medication. But how accurate are these assumptions? Let’s separate the myths from the facts and set the record straight.

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8 Common Myths and Facts About Breastfeeding

Myth 1: Breastfeeding causes your breasts to lose their shape.
Fact 1: In reality, factors like aging, weight changes, and gravity have a much greater impact on breast shape than breastfeeding.

Myth 2: Only a few women experience sexual arousal while breastfeeding.
Fact 2: Feeling aroused during breastfeeding is completely natural and nothing to feel ashamed about. This happens because the hormone oxytocin—also released during orgasm—is produced while nursing.

Myth 3: Stress can reduce your milk supply.
Fact 3: While stress can slow the release of oxytocin and delay milk flow, it doesn’t reduce your milk production permanently. The supply remains intact but may take longer to be expressed when you're stressed.

Myth 4: Nursing less often will cause your milk to dry up.
Fact 4: Your body produces milk based on your baby’s feeding needs. Feeding more often increases supply, while less frequent nursing reduces it gradually—but doesn’t make it disappear immediately.

More Breastfeeding Myths and Facts

Myth 5: It’s important to teach your baby to hold a bottle and become independent early on.
Fact 5: While many mothers choose to bottle-feed for convenience, it’s best to introduce bottles only occasionally after 4 to 6 weeks of regular breastfeeding. Premature bottle use or pacifiers may lead to nipple confusion or reduce interest in breastfeeding.

Myth 6: Formula milk is better than breast milk because it contains added nutrients.
Fact 6: Even the highest-quality formula lacks the living components of breast milk—such as antibodies, enzymes, and hormones. While formula may contain more iron and certain minerals, it also includes higher levels of elements like aluminium, manganese, and cadmium. Every baby has unique nutritional needs, so combining both breast milk and formula may be beneficial in some cases. Always consult a pediatrician for guidance.

Myth 7: You must strictly monitor your diet and drink excessive water while breastfeeding.
Fact 7: A well-balanced, nutritious diet is key—not overeating or consuming specific foods unnecessarily. There's no need to “eat for two.” Follow dietary advice from your healthcare provider and drink water based on your thirst, not in excess.

Myth 8: You should stop breastfeeding immediately if you’re feeling unwell.
Fact 8: By the time you notice symptoms, your baby may have already been exposed to the illness—or may even be the one who passed it to you. Continuing to breastfeed is actually beneficial, as your milk provides antibodies that help protect your baby. It’s one of the best ways to support their immunity during this time.

Even if your baby is unwell or has diarrhoea, it’s important to continue breastfeeding—it provides essential nutrients and immune support that aid recovery. However, since every situation is different, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional as soon as you or your baby show signs of illness.