Breastfeeding is often described as natural, but for many new mothers, navigating it in the early days feels anything but easy. What complicates this further is the heavy influence of generational beliefs passed down in Indian households. These beliefs, while rooted in care, can often be outdated or misinformed. In this post, we’re busting top breastfeeding support myths that are still common in many Indian families.
Where Do These Myths Come From?
Most breastfeeding support myths in India originate from a mix of traditional practices, anecdotal experiences, and lack of access to up-to-date medical information. In the past, without professional lactation support, women relied on family wisdom some of it helpful, and some, not so much. While elders mean well, it’s important to separate tradition from fact, especially when it comes to infant health and maternal well-being.
Myth 1: Colostrum is Dirty or Harmful
One of the most damaging traditional breastfeeding advice myths is that colostrum – the first thick, yellow milk produced after birth is dirty or stale. This is not only false but dangerous.
Truth: Colostrum is often referred to as “liquid gold” for a reason. It’s rich in antibodies, essential nutrients, and acts as the baby’s first vaccine. Delaying breastfeeding to “wait for clean milk” deprives the baby of critical immunity.
Myth 2: You Must Give Water in Summer
In many Indian families, it’s believed that babies need extra water during hot months to stay hydrated.
Truth: Breastmilk contains all the hydration a baby needs even in scorching summers. Giving water can fill the baby’s small stomach, reducing the desire to nurse and increasing risk of water intoxication in infants under 6 months.
Myth 3: Breast Size Determines Milk Production
This is a classic myth that adds unnecessary stress to new mothers with smaller breasts.
Truth: Breast size has nothing to do with how much milk a mother can produce. Milk production is based on demand and supply, efficient latch, and hormonal signals. A mother with small breasts can produce just as much milk as someone with larger ones.
Myth 4: If the Baby Cries, Formula is Always Better
Crying is often misunderstood as a sign of hunger or insufficient milk, leading many families to push for formula feeding.
Truth: Babies cry for many reasons hunger is just one of them. Growth spurts, overstimulation, or needing comfort are equally common causes. Supplementing with formula without proper assessment can reduce milk supply and interfere with breastfeeding journey.
Lactation consultants emphasize that each breastfeeding journey is unique. Scientific studies and clinical experience consistently support exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. We guide mothers through latch issues, milk supply concerns, and emotional support things that myths often make harder to address.
Educating Your Family with Love and Facts
Change starts at home. Instead of dismissing elders, share information from reliable sources. Involve them in paediatric or lactation consultations, show them articles or videos from certified professionals, and remind them that times have changed, so has the science. Respectful conversations rooted in love go a long way in shifting family myths about breastfeeding.
Busting Breastfeeding Myths in India, One Home at a Time
Whether you’re a new mother, a family member, or a healthcare professional, understanding and challenging Indian breastfeeding beliefs is key to better infant health outcomes. By breaking free from traditional breastfeeding advice that no longer serves us, we can embrace an informed, nurturing, and empowering path to motherhood.
If you’re navigating conflicting advice or need help busting myths around breastfeeding in India, I’m here to help. Follow this blog or reach out for expert lactation support rooted in science and sensitivity.
If you delivered at Motherhood, Fortis, Rainbow children, Apollo or Cloudnine, but need more tailored support, consider scheduling a private lactation consultation in Bangalore with www.latchelp.com or whatsapp 7708357594.