These are things that I see or read every day: From my clients, from professionals and websites focusing on newborn issues. I know that one post cannot squash these myths completely, but if this helps just a few moms obtain correct information, I’ll be very happy! Each one of these statements could be an entire post. As time goes on, I hope to link each myth with a thorough explanation as to why it’s a myth. But for now, read these and remember they are MYTHS!

Breastfeeding is painful for the first few weeks.

You must pump after every feeding in order to have enough milk.

Engorgement is normal and is a sign that everything is going well.

There is not enough milk during the first few days after the birth, so most babies need some formula until the milk “comes in.”

Many women do not produce enough milk.

A baby should be on the breast for a certain amount of time.

A mother should wash her nipples with soap before feeding the baby.

Pumping is a good way of knowing how much milk you have.

If your breasts don’t feel full, that means your milk supply is inadequate.

If a mother is planning to breastfeed, she should buy a pump.

Infant formulas are almost the same as breast milk.

Doctors know a lot about breastfeeding.

Some babies are lactose intolerant.

Nipples need to “toughen up” in order to breastfeed.

If you give a baby a bottle, he will not like the breast any more.

If you breastfeed you will sleep less than if you bottle feed.

You can’t eat your favorite foods if you breastfeed.

You can’t have a glass of wine if you breastfeed.

Breastfeeding makes your breasts sag.

Breastfeeding takes a lot of time.

If you have twins, you have to use formula.

Dads can’t bond with the baby if baby is breastfed.

If you breastfeed, everyone can see your breasts.

After 6 months, breast milk provides no more benefit to the baby.

There is no reason to breastfeed beyond the first few months because your milk will turn to water.

If you have twins or more, you will definitely need to use formula.

If your baby is gassy or cries a lot, it means he is allergic to your milk.

Your baby will sleep longer at night if you give her a bottle of formula.

If your baby doesn’t breastfeed in the first week, he probably never will.

If you have flat nipples, your baby won’t be able to breastfeed.

If your nipples are too big, your baby won’t be able to breastfeed.

If your breasts are too small, too big, too (fill in the blank), you won’t be able to breastfeed.

Breastfeeding will lead to bone loss.

Have you encountered any myths about breastfeeding? Have you heard some things that just don’t sound right? Please, post them here in the comments box. I would love to hear from you!