FAQs • LDC Public Health, KS • CivicEngage

My mother didn't have enough milk, does that mean I won't either?: As long as you are well hydrated and nourished, you will produce the amount of milk the baby needs. The experience of your mother will not affect how much milk you produce. Since the 1930s, mothers have not received a lot of support for breastfeeding and were even given the ill-advice to not breastfeed; this unsupportive culture likely affected how successful she was with breastfeeding.

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Breastfeeding

1. Is formula just as good for my baby as breast milk?: Breast milk is a living food that provide immunities against disease (e.g. if you got the flu shot - so did your nursing baby, without the shot!), provides essential substances that a human baby needs (not a calf) and cannot be replicated in a laboratory, and changes as the baby grows depending on her / his needs.

But breastfeeding is much more than just a way to feed your baby since it provides a stronger bond between you and your baby, burns calories to get your shape back, releases hormones that relax you and much more.

2. Will my baby be too dependent if I breastfeed?: Your baby may actually show greater independence since his / her needs are being met.

3. Will breastfeeding take all my time?: With breastfeeding there is no bottle to prepare, so you may actually end up with more time if you are the 1 preparing the bottles. Plus, you will be able to stop whatever you are doing and rest while baby is breastfeeding. Think of it as nature’s way to help you slow down and breathe.

4. My mother didn't have enough milk, does that mean I won't either?: As long as you are well hydrated and nourished, you will produce the amount of milk the baby needs. The experience of your mother will not affect how much milk you produce. Since the 1930s, mothers have not received a lot of support for breastfeeding and were even given the ill-advice to not breastfeed; this unsupportive culture likely affected how successful she was with breastfeeding.

5. If I breastfeed, does that mean I won't be able to eat whatever I want?: Breastfed babies generally tolerate whatever foods the mother consumes unless there is an allergy or intolerance to a certain food. You should stay well-nourished and hydrated for optimal energy and milk production. As in the womb, your baby is learning about new flavors as she breastfeeds and this experience will help shape food preferences and acceptance as she begins solid foods.

6. If I deliver by cesarean birth, will I still be able to breastfeed?: How you deliver your baby should have no affect on your ability to breastfeed. Be sure to let hospital staff know that you are breastfeeding.

7. Will breastfeeding drain me of all of my energy?: Parenting can be tiring no matter what, however, when you are breastfeeding your baby, you are able to rest and sometimes sleep while reclined or lying down with your baby, providing a much-earned rest time. Breastfeeding hormones also help you to feel more relaxed. Have healthy snacks and interesting books on hand so that you can read and snack while baby is feeding and sleeping.

8. Will I lose my figure and get sagging breasts if I breastfeed?: Pregnancy and aging are what contribute the most to sagging breasts, not breastfeeding. Breastfeeding helps mothers get back to their prepregnancy weight faster.

9. My mother and partner want to help me take care of the baby, but if I’m breastfeeding what will they do?: Lots! Feeding your baby is not the only way to help! Here is a list of ways a partner, mother, friend, etc. can help a new mother: prepare meals and healthy snacks (feed mom!), throw in a load of laundry; burp baby; rock baby; walk baby; talk and read to baby; play with baby; change baby’s diaper; give baby a bath, bring baby to mom when hungry, visit mom, babysit while mom gets coffee with a friend, etc.