For centuries, Indian culture has celebrated motherhood with rituals and traditions. However, many practices related to breastfeeding are based on outdated beliefs. Breastfeeding is a crucial part of a newborn’s nutrition and development. Today’s mothers need evidence-based information to support their lactation journey, not myths that undermine their confidence.
Here are some common lactation myths in India, debunked with facts.
Myth 1: Eating ghee increases milk supply
The concept that consuming large quantities of ghee will enhance breast milk production is one of the common beliefs about milk supply. Although ghee certainly contains healthy fats and can be included as part of a balanced postpartum diet, there exists no scientific evidence that it has any positive or direct effect on milk supply. Maternal hydration, frequent feeding, and a balanced diet have a much greater impact on maintaining lactation.
Myth 2: Small breasts produce less milk
Women are equally plagued with concerns that breast size will affect the ability to breastfeed. In reality, size is determined by fatty tissue, while the actual formation of milk rests on an entirely different set of tissues, namely glandular tissue. A woman with small breasts is quite capable of producing the necessary amount of milk as the one with larger breasts. Milk supply occurs on the basis of demand; the more a baby feeds, the more milk is produced.
Myth 3: Mothers who have C-sections can’t breastfeed immediately
There exists a widely formed belief that mothers who undergo cesarean section are unable to commence breastfeeding immediately. The truth is that, with adequate medical support, skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding on the operating table can often start right after surgery. With some initial help, breastfeeding can still hold out its worth despite being a challenge after a cesarean birth.
Myth 4: One must give formulas if the child cries more
Crying is the only means of communication for a baby; crying does not always mean hunger or that breast milk is insufficient. Babies can cry if they feel discomfort, are tired, or need to cuddle. Unnecessary supplementation with formula milk can lead to difficulties with breastfeeding and even slow down milk production. The key is to trust the infant regarding the growth and the cues for feeding.
Myth 5: Colostrum (first milk) should be discarded
In some communities, colostrum is wrongly believed to be impure or harmful. In fact, colostrum is rich in antibodies, essential nutrients, and protective factors that help strengthen a newborn’s immune system. Discarding it deprives the baby of their first “immunization.”
Need for accurate information
Dispelling these myths is important for the health and well-being of the mother and child. Organizations like UNICEF and the Breastfeeding Support for Indian Mothers (BSIM) community are good sources of trustworthy and evidence-based information. Lactation consultants or healthcare professionals can help mothers along their way on the breastfeeding journey.
Breastfeeding is beautiful and a natural process, but one common hurdle in this path is lack of good knowledge. It is high time to dump all the outdated myths and be focused on valid and scientific facts.
For personalized guidance and support, Mom’s Preg-Ladder offers customized breastfeeding and lactation classes designed to help new mothers confidently navigate their journey.