Breastfeeding comes with a lot of advice, but unfortunately, not all of it is accurate. From old wives’ tales to social media myths, it can be hard to know what’s actually true.
We’re going to look at some of the most common breastfeeding myths we hear from parents every day. And don’t forget to check out our social media pages where we dive even deeper into these topics!
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Myth #1: Small breasts can’t make enough milk.
Breast size has very little to do with milk production. Breast size is mostly determined by fatty tissue, while milk production depends on the amount of milk-making glandular tissue and how often milk is removed from the breast. You can have small breasts but still have an adequate amount of glandular tissue to have a full milk supply for your baby! You may also notice that during pregnancy, your breasts will get bigger because pregnancy hormones will trigger the glands and ducts inside the breast to grow and develop to prepare for lactation.
Many parents with smaller breasts make a full milk supply, while some parents with larger breasts may still experience supply concerns.
Bottom line: Breast size does not predict your ability to breastfeed.
Myth #2: If you have large breasts, you’re going to suffocate your baby.
This myth can create a lot of anxiety for parents with larger breasts.
While some positions may require extra support early on, babies are incredibly good at protecting their airway. A baby’s nose is designed to allow them to breathe while nursing, and there are many comfortable positions that work well for all breast sizes. It is not necessary to make a space for your baby’s nose! Their nose and airway are designed to allow them to breathe while nursing, and they will usually unlatch if they need to reposition.
If positioning feels challenging, an IBCLC can help you find a setup that feels safe and comfortable.
Bottom line: Large breasts do not automatically make breastfeeding unsafe.
Myth #3: Breastfeeding pain is normal, just push through it.
Some tenderness in the first few days can be common, but ongoing pain is not normal and not something you have to endure.
Pain can be a sign of latch issues, positioning challenges, nipple damage, tongue tie concerns, infection, vasospasm, or other feeding difficulties.
Bottom line: Breastfeeding may take practice, but it shouldn’t consistently hurt. Seek help from an IBCLC if you are noticing nipple damage and having pain with latching.
Myth #4: You have to drink Body Armor and eat lactation cookies to have a good milk supply.
While staying hydrated and eating enough calories is important, there is no magic food or drink that guarantees a strong milk supply. There are currently no evidence-based studies that support the claim that any specific food directly causes and increase in milk supply.
What the evidence does show is that the biggest driver of milk production is frequent and effective milk removal, either by breastfeeding directly, pumping, or both.
Bottom line: Consistent milk removal matters far more than any specific snack or drink. It is not necessary to purchase any supplements! If you are concerned about your milk supply, reach out to an IBCLC. Many perceived supply issues have solutions, and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Myth #5: Cluster feeding means your baby isn’t getting enough milk.
Cluster feeding is a normal infant behavior, especially during growth spurts and developmental leaps.
Many babies will nurse frequently during certain times of the day, especially in the evening. This does not automatically mean your supply is low. Instead, look at overall diaper output, weight gain, satisfaction immediately after nursing, and feeding patterns.
Bottom line: Frequent feeding is often normal and expected.
Myth #6: Pumping output tells you how much milk you make.
Pumps measure what a pump removes, not what your baby can remove.
Some parents respond extremely well to pumps, while others make plenty of milk but struggle to pump large volumes. When evaluating milk supply, we look at the whole picture: baby’s growth, diaper output, feeding behavior, and breast changes. Babies are more effective at removing milk at the breast than a pump ever could, due to both the sucking and compressing they do at the same time.
Bottom line: Pump output is only one piece of the puzzle.
Myth #7: You have to prepare your nipples before baby arrives.
Good news: You absolutely do NOT need to toughen up, scrub, or prepare your nipples in any way during pregnancy. Aggressive nipple preparation can sometimes cause damage, irritation or discomfort.
Your body naturally prepares for breastfeeding. You may notice your nipples and areola getting bigger and darker during pregnancy, and new little “bumps” called Montgomery glands appear around the areola.
Bottom line: Save yourself the extra work! Your nipples don’t need any kind of special preparation before your baby arrives.
Myth #8: Your milk supply will drop if you start exercising again.
For most parents, moderate exercise has little to no impact on milk production. Exercise can improve mood, energy levels, strength, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being during the postpartum period.
The key is staying hydrated, eating enough to support your body’s needs, and gradually returning to activity.
Bottom line: You can absolutely exercise and continue breastfeeding successfully without it affecting your supply!
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Quick Tips
✔ Pain deserves answers, not just endurance
✔ Pump output does not define your milk supply.
✔ Cluster feeding is usually normal.
✔ Breast size does not determine breastfeeding success.
✔ Most breastfeeding parents can safely return to exercise.
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Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician, pediatrician, or a qualified lactation consultant regarding any medical concerns or questions.
