Breastfeeding Myths End Nursing Early
Many mothers stop breastfeeding not because they have run out of milk, but because they mistakenly believe they have, according to international and regional lactation consultant Mariam Al Mahdi.
Marking the conclusion of World Breastfeeding Week today, Al Mahdi said the misconception that breast milk is insufficient remains the leading reason mothers give up breastfeeding unnecessarily, even though most babies receive exactly the nutrition they need.
She said a crying baby does not always indicate hunger, milk that appears thin is not necessarily lacking in nutrition, and breasts that feel soft have not stopped producing milk. Despite this, these common beliefs continue to persuade many mothers that breastfeeding is failing when it is not.
Al Mahdi said genuine low milk supply does occur but is often linked to identifiable physical or emotional factors rather than an inability to breastfeed.
She identified psychological stress, exhaustion and sleep deprivation as some of the most common causes. Medical conditions including an underactive thyroid, polycystic ovary syndrome and diabetes may also reduce milk production, along with retained placenta fragments after birth, heavy bleeding during or after delivery, certain medications, epidural use during labour, previous breast surgery affecting the milk ducts and caesarean delivery.
Breastfeeding practices also play a significant role, she said. Introducing formula too early, poor latching, feeding too infrequently and repeatedly using the same feeding position can all reduce milk production over time.
According to Al Mahdi, protecting milk supply starts with feeding babies whenever they show signs of hunger instead of following a strict schedule, ensuring a proper latch and fully emptying the breast through breastfeeding or pumping. She added that a balanced diet rich in protein, whole grains, vegetables, fruit and healthy fats also supports breastfeeding.
She noted that traditional Bahraini postnatal practices continue to be followed by many mothers. Foods such as hasu, jallab, rashoof and fenugreek have long been associated locally with supporting milk production, while staying hydrated with water, aniseed water and coconut water may also help. She added that postnatal massage, adequate rest and reducing stress wherever possible can further support breastfeeding.
Some foods, including mint, parsley, celery, sage and particularly sour or spicy dishes, are sometimes believed to reduce milk supply. Al Mahdi cautioned against treating these claims as universal, saying every mother responds differently and should observe how her own body reacts.
She advised mothers to seek assistance from a lactation consultant if breastfeeding becomes painful, the baby struggles to latch, nipples become cracked, milk supply appears too low or too high, engorgement or blocked ducts develop, or when caring for premature babies, babies born with cleft lip or certain medical conditions, returning to work or planning to begin pumping.
"Do not allow myths or discouraging comments to determine your breastfeeding journey," Al Mahdi said. "With the right knowledge and support, many of the problems that convince mothers to stop breastfeeding can be overcome, allowing both mother and baby to benefit for as long as possible."
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