5 Common Breastfeeding Myths That Could Be Holding You Back (And the Truth You Need to Know!)

Let’s debunk five of the most common breastfeeding myths and set the record straight.

1. “You have to pump to know how much milk your baby is getting.”

🚫 Myth: If you can’t see how much milk is coming out, you won’t know if your baby is getting enough.
✅ Truth: Babies are typically more efficient at removing milk than a pump, so pump output might not be an accurate reflection. There are other ways to determine if your baby is getting enough milk. The best indicators are diaper output, weight gain, and feeding cues. If your baby is having enough wet and dirty diapers and gaining weight appropriately, they are getting enough milk—no pumping required!

2. “Small breasts produce less milk.”

🚫 Myth: If you have small breasts, you won’t be able to make enough milk.
✅ Truth: Milk production is determined by the amount of glandular tissue inside the breast, not breast size. Even individuals with smaller breasts can produce a full milk supply. Proper milk removal and frequent feeding are the key factors that regulate supply, not the size of the breast itself.

3. “You should space out feedings to build up your milk supply.”

🚫 Myth: Waiting longer between feedings helps your breasts fill up with more milk.
✅ Truth: Breastfeeding works on demand and supply. The more frequently milk is removed, the more your body will produce. This relationship is important to establish early on whether feeding at the breast or pumping. Spacing out of timing feedings can actually decrease milk supply over time, as the body starts producing less milk in response to less frequent stimulation.

4. “If breastfeeding hurts, you just have to tough it out.”

🚫 Myth: Pain is normal, and you just need to push through it.
✅ Truth: While some tenderness and pain is common in the early days, persistent pain is a sign that something needs to be addressed. Poor latch, positioning, ill-fitting pump parts, or potential oral function issues (such as tongue ties) can contribute to pain. Getting help from a lactation consultant early on can make breastfeeding much more comfortable and sustainable for mom and baby.

5. “You can’t breastfeed if you have a low supply.”

🚫 Myth: If you don’t make enough milk, you have to stop breastfeeding.
✅ Truth: Breastfeeding isn’t all or nothing! Many parents with low supply or other feeding issues are still able to breastfeed while supplementing as needed. Every drop of breastmilk provides benefits, so your baby will benefit from any amount that you and your body are able to give! 

Final Thoughts

Breastfeeding comes with a learning curve, and misinformation can make it even more challenging and confusing. By separating fact from fiction, parents can make informed choices that best support their breastfeeding journey. If you’re facing challenges or have concerns, seeking guidance from a lactation professional can make a world of difference.