Does the myth of breastfeeding doubt your own abilities as a mother? Gynecologists share myths and facts that all new moms need to know.
The 2025 World Breastfeeding theme, “Breastfeeding Prioritization: Creating a Sustainable Support System,” emphasizes not only awareness but also behavior. The success of breastfeeding is not just a result of the mother’s will, but it also reminds us of the quality of support available. This support also leads to accepting the facts surrounding the myth of breastfeeding. According to senior gynecologists, social myths, lack of systematic support and misinformation can lead even the most devoted mother to doubt themselves.
Obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Charlata Bansal shares it with Health Shot.
Myth of breastfeeding: “If you don’t breastfeed right after birth, you won’t be able to breastfeed.”
fact: Late lactic acid is normal and not a failure. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the World Health Organization have stated that the early milk type colostrum age is secreted in small amounts, sufficient for the requirements of early neonates. Mature milk usually begins 3-5 days after birth, according to the study. Room-in and early feeding at the first time at birth significantly enhance long-term nursing outcomes. ICMR advises the start of breastfeeding within an hour of birth and exclusive feeding for six months.
Myth of breastfeeding: “Small breasts can’t produce enough milk.”
fact: Milk production is determined by functional breast tissue, not breast size. A study conducted and published in the Indian Journal of Paediatrics confirmed that breast size is not correlated with breastfeeding ability. Milk is a system of supply and demand. The more the baby sucks, the more milk it produces. A study conducted by the National Institute of Nutrition showed that over 85% of mothers were able to produce adequate milk regardless of breast or body type when taught appropriate feeding techniques.
Myth of breastfeeding: “You need to follow a special diet to breastfeed.”
fact: Nutritious homemade Indian diets usually provide breastfeeding requirements. The nutritional requirements for Indians in ICMR suggest that breastfeeding women will bring 500 calories a day to an additional 500 calories. Liquids, iron, calcium and protein are essential, but there is no evidence that most foods “rot” milk unless allergies are detected in infants. Spices such as geela (cumin) and ajwine (kalom seeds) are commonly found in postpartum Indian diets, but may be useful for digestion, but are not medically necessary.
Myth of breastfeeding: “If you get sick, you should not breastfeed.”
fact: In most illnesses, continuing breastfeeding protects the infant. Antibodies in breast milk help to develop immunity in babies. The WHO and ICMR recommend that you need to continue taking the food with simple hygiene precautions, even in mild cases such as colds, flu and fever. For example, if the mother is taking certain medications or has active tuberculosis or HIV, there are a few exceptions. Seek advice from your healthcare provider about specific advice.
Breastfeeding myth: “If my baby crys frequently, that means I’m not producing enough milk.”
fact: Crying is not necessarily related to hunger. Hunger is just one of the many reasons why babies cry, according to UNICEF and ICMR pediatric panels. Check for weight gain and wet diapers. At least 6-8 wet diapers show an appropriate milk intake. Growth eruptions occurring in 7-10 days, 2-3 weeks, or 6 weeks can lead to temporary stimulation and cluster feeding. Instead of switching to formulas immediately, they will increase feeding and seek support from a lactation consultant.
Myth of breastfeeding: “Formula is as good as breast milk.”
fact: Formula is acceptable, but breast milk remains the ideal choice if necessary. ICMR data show that exclusive breastfeeding can reduce infant deaths by 13% in India, reducing the risk of diarrhea, pneumonia and allergies. Breast milk is adjusted according to the nutritional requirements of the baby, as opposed to the formula. Breastfeeding also increases IQ scores and reduces the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
By exposing breastfeeding myths, efforts are to eliminate stigma and normalize the difficulties women may face during this journey.
