6 Common Breastfeeding Myths Debunked

Whether you are a first-time mother or adding another little one to your family, it is easy to feel confused by mixed messages from well-meaning relatives, social media, and even some healthcare professionals.

Let us clear the air. Here are six common breastfeeding myths and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: You do not produce enough milk in the first few days

Truth: It is completely normal for your breasts to produce only a small amount of colostrum immediately after birth. This early milk is packed with nutrients and antibodies that your baby needs in tiny but powerful doses. Most newborns have very small stomachs, about the size of a marble, so they do not need large amounts at first. Frequent feeding signals your body to increase milk production naturally within a few days.

Myth 2: Formula-fed babies sleep better

Truth: There is no solid scientific evidence to support this. While formula may take longer to digest, it does not guarantee better sleep. Babies wake up often for many reasons such as growth spurts, teething or simply needing comfort. Breast milk actually contains hormones such as melatonin and tryptophan that can help regulate your baby’s sleep cycles over time.

Myth 3: You must follow a strict feeding schedule

Truth: Breastfeeding works best on demand, not on the clock. Every baby is unique. Some feed frequently, while others take longer breaks. Feeding your baby whenever they show hunger cues, such as rooting, sucking on their hands or fussiness, helps establish your milk supply and keeps your baby satisfied. Scheduled feeding can make things more stressful and may interfere with milk production.

Myth 4: You cannot breastfeed if you have small breasts

Truth: Breast size has nothing to do with milk supply. Milk production depends on the number of milk glands and how often milk is removed, not the physical size of your breasts. Some women with smaller breasts may need to feed more often because they store less milk at a time, but their total production is just as capable as anyone else’s.

Myth 5: Breastfeeding should never hurt

Truth: Some discomfort is normal at first, but pain is not. Soreness or tenderness in the early days can happen as your nipples adjust, but sharp pain, cracking or bleeding usually means your baby is not latching properly. With proper positioning and guidance from a lactation consultant, most issues can be resolved quickly.

For tips on making your breastfeeding journey smoother, read this blog.

Myth 6: You do not need supplements while breastfeeding

Truth: While a well-balanced diet is important, many new mothers may not get all the nutrients they need through food alone, especially during the demanding postpartum period. Nutrient deficiencies can affect energy levels, recovery and even breastmilk quality.

This is where targeted postnatal supplements can help. For example, Revital Essence is a comprehensive postnatal multivitamin designed to support both mother and baby. Developed through years of clinical practice at a leading IVF clinic, it replenishes key nutrients lost during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Key benefits of Revital Essence include:

• Supports postnatal recovery and breastfeeding
• Contains iron and B vitamins to maintain energy and wellbeing
• Includes zinc to support wound healing and immune health
• Provides choline to nurture the baby’s brain development
• Third-party tested for quality and safety

For tips on nutrition while breastfeeding, read this blog.

Breastfeeding is a personal journey, and it is okay if yours does not look like anyone else’s. Arm yourself with accurate information, reach out for support, and remember that whether you breastfeed exclusively, pump, or supplement with formula, what matters most is that your baby is fed and loved.

For more breastfeeding support, check out this blog.