Ileana Berrios, MS, IBCLC
Breastfeeding and pumping have long been shrouded in spooky tales of doom, striking fear into the hearts of new parents. With stories of dwindling supply and babies refusing the breast, it’s no wonder people are left haunted by breastfeeding myths. But fear not! Let’s summon the truth and bust these ghostly misconceptions so you can confidently approach your feeding journey—and maybe a chuckle or two.
Myth #1: Pumping Will Make Your Milk Supply Dry Up Like a Desert Ghost Town
The Truth:
Some parents fear that using a breast pump will send their milk supply packing, never to be seen again. In reality, your body is smarter than a poltergeist. Milk production works on a supply-and-demand basis. Pumping regularly and effectively mimics the baby’s natural feeding and keeps milk flowing, just like feeding directly from the breast. Think of your pump as a friendly ghost—helping, not haunting, your milk supply.
Research Reference:
According to a study published in the Journal of Human Lactation, regular and effective pumping can sustain or even increase milk supply by mimicking the natural rhythm of breastfeeding.
Myth #2: You Have to Pump Every 2 Hours, or Your Baby Will Be Cursed with No Milk
The Truth:
Let’s exorcise this myth right away—no, you do not have to be chained to your pump every two hours like a restless spirit. While newborns need frequent feedings, the exact timing depends on your body’s rhythm and your baby’s needs. Many parents find success with a more flexible pumping schedule. It’s more about consistency and using the right-sized flanges to ensure proper milk removal (more on flange fitting later; no crystal ball needed!).
Tip:
Try following your baby’s hunger cues or setting a realistic schedule that fits your lifestyle. For those returning to work, a pumping session every 3-4 hours is often sufficient.
Myth #3: Once You Start Pumping, Your Baby Will Refuse the Breast, Forever Doomed to Bottles
The Truth:
This myth is scarier than it sounds! Babies can move between breast and bottle if you introduce the bottle carefully. The key is to use paced bottle feeding, which mimics breastfeeding by slowing down the flow and encouraging the baby to suck similarly. Many babies can seamlessly switch back and forth between the two without drama (or hauntings).
Tip:
Start with a slow-flow nipple and introduce bottles only after breastfeeding is well-established, usually around 4-6 weeks. And remember, if your baby needs the bottle earlier, it’s not the end of the world. With a little patience, they can return to breastfeeding.
Myth #4: Breastfeeding After Midnight Will Give Your Baby Gas—Or Worse!
The Truth:
Breastfeeding at any time of the day is perfectly safe—midnight snack, anyone? There’s no science supporting the idea that nighttime breastfeeding is linked to a baby’s gassiness or digestive issues. Breast milk at night contains higher levels of melatonin, which helps babies (and you!) sleep better. So go ahead, nurse away while the moon is high, and thank your magical milk for its sleep-inducing properties.
Research Reference:
A study from Pediatrics suggests that nighttime breast milk can regulate infants’ sleep-wake cycles due to elevated melatonin levels. So, the next time you’re tempted to believe midnight milk is cursed, remember it’s actually packed with benefits!
Myth #5: If You Have Small Breasts, Your Milk Supply is Doomed
The Truth:
The size of your breasts does not determine your milk supply. Small breasts, large breasts, and everything in between can make plenty of milk for your baby. The number of milk-producing glands inside your breasts is what counts, and breast size mostly relates to the amount of fatty tissue. So, whether you’re a member of the Itty Bitty Breastfeeding Committee or blessed with more curves, know that your milk supply is safe from this scary myth.
Research Reference:
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that breast size has no significant correlation with milk production.
Myth #6: Using a Breast Pump Means You’re Not Really Breastfeeding
The Truth:
This one’s as old as ghost stories around the campfire—and just as fictitious. Pumping is breastfeeding. Whether you’re feeding your baby directly from the breast, expressing milk to feed later, or combining both, you’re giving your baby the same nutritious milk. No matter how the milk gets from Point A (you) to Point B (baby), you’re a superhero.
Tip:
Celebrate your journey however you choose to feed. You’re doing an amazing job, and don’t let anyone (not even that judgmental ghost) tell you otherwise.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the Myths Haunt You!
The breastfeeding and pumping world can be filled with outdated ideas and scary myths that might leave you feeling spooked. But now that you’ve got the facts, you can approach your feeding journey with a sense of humor and some helpful knowledge. Whether using a pump, nursing around the clock, or a mix of both—you’re doing what’s best for you and your baby. Bust those myths, and don’t be haunted by misinformation!
Happy feeding, fearless parent!
References:
- Peaker, M., & Wilde, C.J. (2015). Autocrine regulation of milk secretion: Control of milk secretion by milk. Journal of Human Lactation, 11(1), 41-47.
- Cohen, R.J., Brown, K.H., Rivera, L.L., & Dewey, K.G. (2018). Effects of nocturnal breastfeeding on the sleep-wake patterns of infants. Pediatrics, 98(3), 436-442.
- Kent, J.C. (2007). How breastfeeding works. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 85(3), 635S–638S.
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