The truth about common breast pumping and breastfeeding myths
pumping myths
PUMPING MYTHS
MYTH 1
Pumping can ruin your milk supply.
breastfeeding myths
Learn the truth
FACT
Pumping can actually help stimulate your milk production and increase your milk supply. Choose a pump that is comfortable and fits your lifestyle.
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Elvie Pump™
Silent and wearable so you can pump anywhere without the hassle of sockets and wires. Connect to the app to track your pumping history.
MYTH 2
Pumping is painful.
Learn the truth
FACT
Pumping should not be painful. The right size flange, or a one-size fits-all system can help you position things just right so that you don't pinch or irritate yourself.
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Elvie Curve™
This easy-to-use hands-free pump fits the shape of your breast, is made with soft-touch silicone and has a valve to control the level of suction for maximum comfort.
MYTH 3
You can’t pump or save breast milk on the go.
Learn the truth
FACT
Some breast pumps are wearable and mobile and do not require you to stay plugged in. There are even products that help you capture leaked milk when you’re on the move.
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Elvie Catch™
These discreet, slip-proof breast milk collection cups help prevent leaks and save milk that might otherwise go to waste when you're out and about.
MYTH 4
Breast pumps are expensive.
Learn the truth
FACT
Breast pumps are available at many different price points depending on the type and features. Many pumps are covered by insurers; contact your insurance carrier to learn about your options.
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Elvie Stride™
This hands-free, ultra-quiet hospital strength breast pump may be covered by your insurance.
BREASTFEEDING MYTHS
MYTH 6
Babies naturally know how to breastfeed.
Learn the truth
FACT
Breastfeeding doesn't always come easily for mom or baby. If you’re struggling, it can help to work with a lactation consultant (which may be covered by your insurance) and join postpartum support groups for guidance and community.
The best — and probably hardest — breastfeeding advice is to relax! Remember that you and your baby are learning.
-BabyCenter Mom
parent tip
MYTH 7
It's normal for breastfeeding to hurt.
Learn the truth
FACT
Nursing should not hurt. Try applying warm compresses if your breasts are sore or engorged. If it's painful when your baby latches on, break the suction with a clean finger and try again. Call your doctor or lactation consultant if pain persists.
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Frida Mom Breast Warmers
These convenient click-to-heat packs can help relieve boob soreness and clogged ducts, and can even speed up your milk let down.
MYTH 8
Babies who have trouble latching should be bottle-fed.
Learn the truth
FACT
A few reasons why your baby might not latch: They're sleepy, are tongue-tied, or you have engorged breasts. By understanding common latching challenges and how to address them, most moms can continue to successfully breastfeed.
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Earth Mama Organics Nipple Butter
Sometimes latching troubles can lead to sore nipples. Try a nipple butter or cream to soothe and moisturize them.
MYTH 9
Never wake a baby to feed.
Learn the truth
FACT
parent tip
Breastfed babies typically wake up every 2-3 hours to feed. For newborns who sleep for longer stretches, it's okay to wake them to eat every 3-4 hours until they show good weight gain.
My baby girl is super sleepy! She lost almost a full pound less than 48 hrs. after birth, so we did start waking her to feed her. Though, I do not wake her at night. Once she hits her birth weight, we will be able to stop waking her.
~BabyCenter Mom
More than ever before, there's a lot of support out there for new moms. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor or lactation consultant questions, see whether your health insurance covers pumping gear and help, and look for supportive postpartum communities for guidance about feeding your newborn.
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FACT
Fiction
The single most beneficial thing I did was to attend a La Leche League meeting while I was pregnant. I received a great deal of knowledge, support, and encouragement.
I usually pumped the most milk when I was calm and relaxed. It also helped to look at a picture of my baby.
~BabyCenter Mom
~BabyCenter Mom
Elvie Stride™ Plus
The Elvie Stride Plus makes it easy to pump on-the-go, with a hospital-grade electric breast pump and 3-in-1 Carry Bag to keep breastmilk cool.
learn more
MYTH 6
Babies naturally know how to breastfeed.
Learn the truth
FACT
parent tip
Breastfeeding doesn't always come easily for mom or baby. If you’re struggling, it can help to work with a lactation consultant (which may be covered by your insurance) and join postpartum support groups for guidance and community.
The best — and probably hardest — breastfeeding advice is to relax! Remember that you and your baby are learning.
~BabyCenter Mom
• Buy a pump and practice at home
• Build a freezer stash
• Introduce a bottle if you haven’t already
• Discuss your pumping needs with your employer
• Make a schedule
MYTH 5
Pumping at work will be difficult.
Learn the truth
FACT
Some advance planning can make pumping at work easier:
Elvie Stride™ Plus
The Elvie Stride Plus makes it easy to pump on-the-go, with a hospital-grade electric breast pump and 3-in-1 Carry Bag to keep breastmilk cool.
learn more
• Buy a pump and practice at home
• Build a freezer stash
• Introduce a bottle if you haven’t already
• Discuss your pumping needs with your
employer
• Make a schedule
