There is so much to learn about when preparing for a new baby. Car seats, cribs, diapers, and breastfeeding.  Often confusing, and sometimes frightening, breastfeeding advice comes with different points of view and opinions. 

Here are three myths to bust!

1. HAND-EXPRESSING MILK IS A WASTE OF TIME

FALSE!

A recent study by Dr. Jane Morton revealed that hand expression of milk has been an under-utilized skill. There are many benefits of knowing how to express milk from the breast without the use of a pump. Learn more from Stanford Medicine, Newborn Nursery at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital.

2. ZONING OUT IS BAD FOR BREAST MILK PRODUCTION.

FALSE!

In a study conducted by Dr. Stephen Feher, groups of moms whose babies were in the NICU and who had to pump their milk were given relaxation and visualization tapes to help reduce stress. 

After one week, the moms expressed 63% more breast milk! 

3. Herbal Lactation Supplements Must Have Fenugreek to Work

FALSE!

For centuries, certain herbs and foods have been used in different cultures to promote breast milk production.

While fenugreek has been the go-to galactagogue (a substance that increases milk supply) in the US for many years and works well for some women, others may experience some undesirable side effects while taking it. In one survey of nursing mothers in the United States, 85 had used fenugreek as a galactagogue and 45% of those mothers reported having experienced an adverse reaction from the supplement.

In fact, Luna Feehan, the owner of Legendairy Milk® experienced this firsthand with her son when her lactation consultant recommended she try a fenugreek tincture. After determining it was not a good fit for her or her baby, she began to research other galactagogues used in various parts of the world to support milk production.

There you go! Knowing is half the battle!