Breastfeeding is widely recognised as one of the most effective ways to support infant health, yet misinformation continues to influence decisions made by mothers and families around the world, including in Brazil. Common misconceptions range from the belief that breast milk stops providing adequate nutrition after six months to the idea that returning to work necessarily means breastfeeding must end.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods until two years of age or beyond. According to WHO and UNICEF data from 2024, approximately 48% of babies under six months worldwide are exclusively breastfed. Although the figure has improved, it remains below the global target of 60% set for 2030.
Health organisations and specialists emphasise that better access to reliable information can help families distinguish established evidence from advice based solely on individual experiences. Five common breastfeeding myths illustrate some of the most persistent misunderstandings.
Myth 1: "Breast milk stops being nutritious after six months"
False.
The nutritional role of breast milk does not end when a baby reaches six months. The WHO recommends introducing appropriate complementary foods at this stage while continuing breastfeeding.
Breast milk remains a source of energy, nutrients and immune-related components as children grow. According to the WHO, between six and 12 months, breast milk can provide up to half of a child's energy requirements, while continuing to contribute nutritional and immunological benefits.
Complementary foods therefore add to breastfeeding rather than making breast milk obsolete.
Myth 2: "Returning to work means a mother must stop breastfeeding"
False.
Returning to professional activities does not necessarily require breastfeeding to end. Organisations such as UNICEF emphasise that with appropriate planning, suitable facilities for expressing milk and safe storage practices, many mothers can continue providing breast milk after returning to work.
Preparation before returning to employment can make the transition easier. Support from family members, employers and colleagues can also play an important role, particularly when mothers need time and appropriate spaces to express and store milk during the working day.
For many families, practical resources can complement this support. Breast pumps, including cordless models, may provide greater flexibility for mothers who need to express milk away from home or outside a dedicated breastfeeding environment.
Myth 3: "If a baby wants to breastfeed frequently, the milk must not be satisfying them"
False.
Newborn babies have relatively small stomachs and naturally need to feed frequently. Feeding patterns can also vary considerably between babies and throughout the day.
Breastfeeding is not solely about satisfying hunger. It can also provide comfort, help regulate emotions and contribute to the development of the bond between mother and baby.
Therefore, frequent requests to breastfeed do not automatically indicate that a mother is producing insufficient milk. When there are concerns about feeding, weight gain or milk supply, families should seek an assessment from a qualified healthcare professional rather than relying on assumptions.
Myth 4: "Breastfeeding always hurts"
False.
Some nipple sensitivity can occur during the first days of breastfeeding, but persistent or significant pain should not simply be accepted as an unavoidable part of the process.
According to UNICEF guidance, discomfort can often be associated with factors such as the baby's positioning or attachment to the breast. Appropriate guidance from healthcare professionals or qualified breastfeeding specialists may help identify and address these problems.
Seeking assistance early can be particularly important because persistent pain may make breastfeeding more difficult and can undermine a mother's confidence.
Myth 5: "Mothers with a low milk supply should stop breastfeeding"
False.
Milk production is influenced by several factors, and an apparent low supply does not automatically mean breastfeeding needs to end. In some situations, feeding more frequently, improving the baby's attachment and receiving timely professional support can help address difficulties with milk production.
Before making decisions about introducing infant formula or changing feeding practices, mothers who are concerned about milk supply should consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional or breastfeeding specialist. Individual assessment is important because feeding difficulties can have different causes.
Why misinformation remains a problem
For Christian Restrepo, a professor and researcher at the Latin American Institute of the Family (ILFARUS), misinformation remains a significant challenge for families navigating breastfeeding.
"Misinformation continues to be one of the greatest challenges for families. Many myths begin with isolated experiences that eventually become generalised beliefs. Today, we know that scientific evidence provides much more reliable answers and that every breastfeeding journey should be supported by validated information and professional guidance rather than recommendations based exclusively on personal experiences."
The distinction is particularly important because breastfeeding experiences vary significantly between individuals. A recommendation that worked for one mother may not necessarily be appropriate for another, particularly when medical, nutritional or developmental circumstances differ.
Practical support can also make a difference
Access to accurate information is only one part of the equation. Mothers may also face practical barriers, particularly when returning to work or balancing breastfeeding with other responsibilities.
Breast pumps can provide one option for mothers who wish to express milk when direct breastfeeding is not possible. Cordless breast pumps, such as models offered by Momcozy, are designed to provide greater mobility through rechargeable batteries and adjustable suction settings, allowing milk expression in different circumstances without relying on a fixed location or power cable.
Such products do not replace professional breastfeeding support or evidence-based healthcare guidance. Instead, they can serve as practical tools for mothers who want greater flexibility while working towards their individual breastfeeding goals.
For families in Brazil and elsewhere, specialists emphasise that the goal should not be to create a single "perfect" breastfeeding experience. Rather, mothers need access to reliable information, appropriate healthcare support and practical resources that allow them to make decisions suited to their circumstances.
Ultimately, challenging breastfeeding myths is about more than correcting inaccurate statements. It is about giving families the confidence to distinguish evidence from anecdote, seek help when difficulties arise and understand that every breastfeeding journey is different.