BAD BREASTFEEDING ADVICE WE TOO OFTEN FOLLOW

4. “IF IT HURTS, IT’S NORMAL/JUST PUSH THROUGH THE PAIN”

Why it’s bad: While some initial tenderness is common, severe pain, cracking, or bleeding nipples are NOT normal. This is almost always a sign of a poor latch, which needs to be corrected. “Pushing through” can lead to damaged nipples, a fear of feeding, mastitis, and ultimately, early weaning.

Better advice: Pain is a signal that something is wrong. Unlatch the baby (by breaking the suction with your finger) and try again. Seek help immediately from a lactation consultant (IBCLC) or a knowledgeable healthcare provider to assess the latch and for any issues like tongue tie.

5. “PUMP TO SEE HOW MUCH MILK YOU’RE MAKING”

Why it’s bad: This is a huge confidence killer. A baby is almost always more efficient at removing milk from the breast than a pump is. What you pump is NOT an indicator of your true supply. Seeing only a small amount can lead a parent to believe they have low supply and unnecessarily supplement, creating a downward spiral.

Better advice: The best indicators of good milk intake are output and weight gain. Look for 5-6+ wet diapers and 3-4+ dirty diapers per day (after day 5) and steady weight gain along their growth curve. Trust your baby, not the pump.

6. “NURSE FOR X MINUTES ON EACH SIDE”

Why it’s bad: This is overly rigid. Some babies are efficient feeders and empty a breast in 10 minutes; others are slower and need 30+. Switching sides too soon can mean the baby only gets the watery “foremilk” and misses the fat-rich “hindmilk,” potentially leading to gas, fussiness, and poor weight gain.

Better advice: Finish the first side first. Let the baby nurse until they come off on their own or seem sleepy and satisfied. Then, offer the second side. This ensures they get a full meal of both fore and hindmilk.

7. “JUST GIVE THEM SOME FORMULA, THEY’RE STILL HUNGRY”

Why it’s bad: This advice often comes from a place of concern but is based on misunderstanding baby’s behavior. Babies cluster feed for comfort and to increase supply. Constantly offering formula after nursing tells your body it doesn’t need to make more milk, which is the fastest way to create a true low supply.

Better advice: Trust your body and your baby. If the baby seems hungry soon after a feed, offer the breast again. This is how they put in the “order” for more milk for tomorrow. If you’re genuinely concerned about supply, contact an IBCLC for a weighted feed and a full assessment.