Our lactation consultant, Christine Billard, explains four common misconceptions.
“It’s impossible to breastfeed two children of different ages.”
False!
Many mothers believe that breastfeeding is only possible for one child at a time. Rest assured, ladies—you won’t run out of milk! On the contrary, it’s entirely possible to breastfeed two children at the same time. It can even have certain benefits. In fact, if the newborn has trouble latching on, the older child becomes a valuable ally because their suckling helps stimulate milk let-down. However, it’s important to remember that the newborn remains the priority and that the composition of breast milk is tailored to their needs. As a result, the milk adapts to the infant’s needs and may change in taste, so the older child may lose interest.
But don’t worry—there will always be enough milk for everyone!
“The first feed is immunity for life.”
False!
The “welcome feed”—also known as the “initial feed”—is your baby’s first time at the breast after birth, and it takes place during skin-to-skin contact. Unfortunately, the few drops your baby swallows during this welcome feed are not enough to “immunize them for life.” The first feeding does not yet contain milk; the baby feeds on colostrum (a substance thicker than mature milk). Your milk supply doesn’t come in until 3 to 5 days after delivery. However, it is true that colostrum offers certain benefits. In fact, this substance is rich in minerals, vitamins, and proteins, and thus helps stabilize blood sugar levels. But, unlike milk, colostrum is low in fat and lactose.
According to the WHO, breastfeeding for at least 6 months is ideal for ensuring significant immunity.
It’s also important to remember that this “welcome feed” does not necessarily mean you’ll continue breastfeeding long-term!
“Breastfeeding prevents ovulation.”
False!
Breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation (the first period after childbirth), but it is by no means a foolproof method of birth control! It is true that a breastfeeding woman produces prolactin, a hormone that promotes lactation and delays ovulation. However, breastfeeding alone is not enough to prevent the return of menstruation. Several conditions must be met to ensure that breastfeeding is an effective natural method of birth control. These include:
- Breastfeeding must be exclusive: at least 6 feedings per 24 hours, provided the baby has been latching correctly since birth;
- The baby must be under 6 months old;
- Your period has not yet returned.
“Certain foods help maintain lactation.”
True!
While breastfeeding, you can return to a more varied diet and rediscover some of the flavors you had to set aside during your pregnancy! There are therefore fewer restrictions, but it’s still important to choose healthy foods and eat a balanced diet. To support your milk supply, certain foods are recommended, such as:
- Fennel;
- Malt-based products;
- Nuts and seeds;
- Anise, wheat, barley, and oats
Unfortunately, there’s a downside. In fact, certain foods can reduce milk supply when consumed in large quantities. For example:
- Mint;
- Parsley;
- Sage.
For more information or to schedule a breastfeeding consultation with a lactation consultant at our Maternity Ward, please feel free to call us on Mondays and Thursdays at 022.719.66.35 to make an appointment.