Breastfeeding Myths Busted!

If you've never breastfed before it can seem to be overwhelming and even confusing. But the many myths which surround the subject can make things much worse! So, while there are innumerable myths out there about this subject, here are 4 that I've heard a great many times and feel need addressed..

1. Breastfeeding Permanently Alters the Size, Shape and Sensitivity of Your Breasts
I have never met a woman who could honestly say she wasn't at least a little worried about how having a child will change their bodies. And truthfully, there are few things you can do that will alter your body half as much as having a child will, there's simply no way around it. And there are changes which will affect your breasts as well. However, these changes take place through pregnancy and whether you choose to breastfeed or not will not stop those changes from taking place. It's true that many women will see growth of a cup size or more during their last trimester of pregnancy, breast may also change to shape, aureola color and sensitivity of your breasts during those months as well. These changes may remain after pregnancy, or they may go back to normal shortly after birth. But, process of breastfeeding will not, directly impact the size, shape or sensitivity of the breasts. In fact, breastfeeding has been shown to be good for the health of the breasts; studies have determined that women who breastfeed are somewhat less likely to develop breast cancer later in their lives.

2. It's Important to Prepare the Nipples
I was told to wear sweaters without a bra for the last 3 months of pregnancy in order to help "toughen" my nipples. And I'll be the first to tell you, this and many other "toughening" practices can not only be painful in themselves, but not worth it! One book I read even said to use a toothbrush on them at night before bed - OUCH!  The whole idea is to create a callouses on the nipples before the baby comes. In reality though, most women see no difference in sensation when attempting to prepare the nipples as opposed to not taking this approach, so it's better to avoid hurting yourself or risking infection.

3. Breastfeeding Is Easy
There is nothing more natural than breastfeeding, but in no way does that mean it's actually easy. Nearly all women will experience at least a minimal level of discomfort and some can actually have some rather serious issues. And for most, it's not abnormal to at least consider stopping. However, there are people and groups available to EVERY MOTHER that are devoted to making breastfeeding a positive experience for both you and your child.

4. Breastfeeding Stops You from Getting Pregnant
Ha! Let me tell you personally how wrong that is! I've heard it over and over, "I can't get pregnant, I'm nursing" and every time it makes me laugh. My oldest son was 5 months old and exclusively breastfed when I found out I was having a second baby...
For many women the menstrual cycle is disrupted and their period delayed while breastfeeding. However, you do NOT have to have a period for pregnancy to occur. And the fact is your cycle will restart BEFORE your period returns. Plus, the hormonal changes which occur in your body during pregnancy can actually leave you more fertile than you were prior to pregnancy and make you MORE LIKELY to become pregnant - Not less! So be careful!