August is Breastfeeding Awareness Month!

There are benefits to breastfeeding but also a few common myths worth addressing. Let’s take a moment to highlight those as we wrap up Breastfeeding Awareness Month.

Myths

• Breastfeeding is easy. Breastfeeding may be natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. It can present lots of challenges, especially for first-time mothers, and it’s okay to acknowledge that. Only 25% of infants are breastfed exclusively to six months of age, although this is recommended as best practice.
• You can never use formula if you breastfeed. Even if you’d like breastfeeding to be standard for your baby, there may be situations where formula may help. If this is the case, there’s no need to feel guilty; ,don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.

Facts

• Breastfeeding is considered best practice for mothers. It’s not going to be a fit for everyone, but it is recommended! Mothers may reap health benefits as well, including lowering risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
• It’s associated with health benefits. Children who are breastfed may benefit in several ways, especially in regards to immunity.
• There are resources available to new mothers to support them with breastfeeding. A lactation specialist with the proper credentials and experience can be a wealth of knowledge for a new mother learning to breastfeed.