You’ve probably already discovered that, as soon as you announce your pregnancy, the world and his wife come forward with a mass of conflicting advice and information on how to bring up your baby! While a lot of this is undoubtedly helpful, some of it is simply not true. We put the facts straight, so you can put your mind at rest.
Not true. Breast milk is always just right. It changes as the feed progresses, from watery, thirst-quenching foremilk at the beginning to rich, nutritious hindmilk as the feed goes on. Don’t worry about what it looks like: watery or creamy, it doesn’t matter. It’s perfectly balanced for your baby.
Not true. If your feeding position’s right and your baby’s settled after feeds then frequent feeding is good – it’s stimulating plenty of milk for the future. Sometimes babies just need a drink rather than a full meal. And remember, your newborn’s stomach is only the size of a walnut, so he or she needs to fill up little and often!
Not true. Make sure your baby latches on well and feed on demand. Your baby’s appetite will vary from one feed to the next and one day to the next, so don’t expect any pattern or routine in the first few weeks.
Not true. It’s important to relieve the breast of milk. The antibiotics prescribed for mastitis won’t harm your baby – although they can lead to a few more pooey nappies!
Not true. Breast milk is nutritionally perfect. Its composition changes over the weeks and months to maintain a balanced diet, constantly suited to your growing baby.
OH YES YOU CAN! It’s advisable to arrange contraception with your doctor or family planning clinic, or ask one of the breastfeeding organisations about natural contraception whilst breastfeeding.