Breastfeeding is vitally important for brain development and healthy growth of the newborn infant. However, there are some doubts and myths on the subject.

World Breastfeeding Week is now celebrated in over 170 countries to raise awareness and promote this practice in pregnant women and mothers around the world. In this sense, Sarah Vega, Pediatrician and Neonatologist at the Clínica Ricardo Palma, clarifies some of the most frequent questions that usually arise during motherhood.

Small breasts cannot breastfeed properly

False. The only thing that really matters is the size of the gland. There are small breasts that are mostly glands and a small percentage of fat, so they can be large producers of breast milk.

Some women do not produce good milk quality

False. The quality of breast milk is excellent to achieve optimal growth and development of children, even when the mother does not have enough nutrient reserves in her body.

Certain foods should not be consumed when breastfeeding

False. Mothers can eat absolutely everything, as long as they are varied food. Therefore, avoid taking the same food or drink repeatedly and frequently.

Drinking cow’s milk, oatmeal, or cocoa water increase milk supplyomar

False. It’s just a belief added to the belief that it can cause allergies, hives, stuffy nose, restless sleep, and colic in children. The only thing that increases the milk supply is the frequent emptying of the breasts.

Fear or stress alters milk quality

False. Mothers can indeed suffer from stress to varying degrees, but this has nothing to do with their milk quality. This is still of good quality and continues to feed the baby in the best way.

Mothers should not breastfeed when they are sick

It Dependes. In general, it is recommended that mothers continue breastfeeding. However, this will depend on the medications they are taking at that time. Check if your medication is compatible with breastfeeding at www.e-lactancia.org.

It is bad to have sex because it alters the state of the milk

False. There is no logical connection and does not alter it at all. Also, maintaining the relationship is very important for the healthy upbringing of the baby.

Colostrum is unsanitary and should not be consumed by the baby

False. This type of milk is great food and is considered the first vaccine for the newborn infant. Although it has a yellowish and sticky appearance, it has great nutritive value.

Milk is no longer beneficial when the child is 1 year old

False. Milk can provide up to more than 30% of the child’s caloric and nutritive requirements after 1 year. However, it needs to be completed with other foods of animal origin as well.

Dr. Sarah Vega
Pediatrician and Neonatologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma