Breastfeeding is one of the most natural things in the world – and yet hardly any other topic is accompanied by so many myths, well-intentioned advice, and uncertainties. Many of these statements persist stubbornly, even though they have long been disproven or only apply under certain circumstances. It's time to take a closer look at one of the most common breastfeeding myths.
Myth 1: "You don't have enough milk"
Many mothers doubt their milk production – often completely without reason. In fact, most women have enough milk, provided the baby latches on regularly and effectively. Frequent breastfeeding promotes milk production. Signs such as frequent nursing, cluster feeding, and restless phases do not automatically mean there is too little milk – they are usually completely normal.
What really matters: weight gain, wet diapers, and the baby's contentment between feedings.
Myth 2: "You shouldn't eat certain foods while breastfeeding"
Chocolate, cabbage, onions, garlic – the list of forbidden foods seems endless. But most babies tolerate what their mother eats without problems. Only if a baby actually reacts noticeably is it worth observing individual foods.
Good rule of thumb: Eat what makes you feel good – your baby will tell you if something isn't right.
Myth 3: "Breastfeeding hurts – that's normal"
Sensitive nipples are not uncommon at the beginning, but persistent pain is not a normal condition. Pain is usually an indication that the baby is not latched on optimally or that the breastfeeding position can be improved. Support from midwives or lactation consultants can be a great relief here.
Myth 4: "Breastfed babies sleep worse."
Sleep is individual – whether breastfed or not. Frequent night waking is a survival instinct; breastfeeding calms and provides security. Many breastfed babies sleep well; others need more closeness. And the same applies to formula-fed babies.
Important focus: Realistic expectations and knowledge about baby sleep – regardless of the type of feeding.
Myth 5: "Breast milk is no longer nutritious enough after 6 months."
Quite the opposite! Breast milk remains high-quality, complete nutrition, no matter how old the baby is.
After 6 months, complementary foods are added, but breast milk does not become "weaker" – it even changes to optimally support the growing baby.
The WHO recommends breastfeeding for two years or longer for good reason! Did you know that the natural weaning age is between 2 and 7 years?
Myth 6: "You have to wean if you go back to work."
Many mothers successfully combine breastfeeding and work. Your child recognizes when you are not at home and looks forward to breastfeeding as soon as you are back. Milk production will adjust accordingly.
Weaning is not a prerequisite for returning to work! I myself went back to work for a full day a week after a year, and my daughter, who breastfed very frequently, adapted wonderfully. When I came home in the evening, she was naturally very much looking forward to her "Mimi". On the other days, we breastfed just as before, on demand!
Myth 7: "Breastfeeding causes saggy breasts."
The breast changes due to pregnancy hormones – not by breastfeeding itself.
Whether breasts sag later depends more on genetics, connective tissue, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy than on breastfeeding.
Myth 8: "Breastfeeding is just nutrition."
Breastfeeding is much more: closeness, security, comfort, regulation, bonding, temperature equalization, and even pain reduction. For babies, breastfeeding is an emotional and physical anchor – not just a way to get full.
Myth 9: "The baby always has to drink from both sides."
Not necessarily. Some babies are perfectly content with one side per feeding. Others want both sides.
The crucial thing is that the baby seems satisfied and thrives – not that both sides are used at every feeding.
Myth 10: "New milk should not mix with old milk in the baby's stomach."
This myth persists – but has no basis whatsoever. Babies are perfectly designed to drink frequently and flexibly.
The milk mixes in the stomach, is digested normally – completely unproblematic.
Myth 11: "Exercise makes the milk sour."
No! Exercise has no influence on the taste of breast milk. Even intense exercise does not change the milk in a way that babies would no longer drink it.
Exercise is healthy – even while breastfeeding.
