Top 7 Breastfeeding Myths (and the Truths Behind Them)

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural things a mother can do, but it doesn’t always come without questions, doubts, and challenges. With so much advice, sometimes conflicting, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Sadly, many myths about breastfeeding have been passed down for generations, leaving new moms second-guessing themselves.

Let’s set the record straight. Here are seven of the most common breastfeeding myths and the truths every mother deserves to know.

Myth 1: “Breastfeeding is supposed to come naturally.”

Truth: While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always feel easy at first. Both you and your baby are learning together, and that takes practice. Many moms need guidance with latching, positioning, or managing supply and that’s completely normal. Support makes all the difference.

Myth 2: “If your baby feeds often, you don’t have enough milk.”

Truth: Frequent feeding is normal for newborns. Their stomachs are tiny, about the size of a cherry at birth, and they digest breastmilk quickly. Nursing often helps stimulate your supply and ensures your baby is getting everything they need.

Myth 3: “You have to drink milk to make milk.”

Truth: You don’t need cow’s milk to make breastmilk. Your body creates milk from the nutrients in your diet, no matter what you eat. The real key is staying hydrated with water and eating a balanced variety of foods.

Myth 4: “Formula-fed babies sleep better.”

Truth: Babies wake frequently whether they’re breastfed or formula-fed. Waking during the night is a normal part of infant development and even protects against SIDS. Breastmilk is perfectly designed for your baby’s needs around the clock.

Myth 5: “Small breasts can’t make enough milk.”

Truth: Breast size has nothing to do with milk supply. Milk production is based on supply and demand. The more your baby nurses effectively, the more milk your body produces.

Myth 6: “You can’t breastfeed if you’re sick.”

Truth: In most cases, it’s actually best to keep breastfeeding when you’re sick. Your body produces antibodies that pass into your milk and help protect your baby. Always check with your provider about medications, but illness itself usually isn’t a reason to stop.

Myth 7: “If breastfeeding hurts, you just have to tough it out.”

Truth: While some tenderness in the first few days can be normal, ongoing pain is not. Persistent pain usually signals a problem with latch or positioning that can be corrected with support from a lactation counselor or other professional.

Final Thoughts

Breastfeeding is a journey, sometimes smooth and sometimes bumpy. By separating myth from fact, you can approach it with more confidence and less stress. Remember, every drop of breastmilk you provide is valuable, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Have you heard any of these myths before? Share your experience in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!