When you're preparing for exclusive breastfeeding, the last thing you need is to be misled by breastfeeding myths that can sabotage your success before you even begin.
Hi, I'm Jaimie Zaki, IBCLC and mom of five. Today we’re tackling three of the biggest breastfeeding misconceptions that too many new moms hear—and why believing them can make breastfeeding harder than it needs to be.
Myth #1: Breastfeeding Is Supposed to Hurt
One of the most damaging myths is the belief that breastfeeding pain is normal. Many moms—including me—have been told that sore nipples and painful feeds are just part of the process.
Let’s set the record straight:
✅ Breastfeeding should NOT hurt.
✅ Mild discomfort in the beginning is normal as you and your baby learn together.
❌ Excruciating pain? Not normal. It’s a red flag that something needs adjusting.
What’s the real issue?In most cases, breastfeeding pain is caused by an incorrect latch. If your baby isn’t latching deeply enough or has an undetected issue (such as a tongue tie), it can lead to cracked nipples, engorgement, and frustration.
✨ Fixing the problem:
Adjusting your baby’s latch can turn a painful experience into a comfortable and rewarding one.
Don’t assume that pain is inevitable—a deep, effective latch should feel comfortable, even soothing!
Learn step-by-step latching techniques in my Latching with Confidence course, designed to help you achieve a pain-free breastfeeding experience from day one.
Myth #2: If the Latch Looks Fine, It Must Be Fine
Many moms hear, "The latch looks great, so the pain must be normal." But just because a latch looks okay from the outside doesn't mean it actually is.
Here’s the truth:
✅ A latch that looks fine can still be shallow and ineffective.
✅ Pain during breastfeeding means something is off, even if it’s not obvious.
❌ Ignoring latch pain can lead to low milk supply, nipple damage, and baby not transferring enough milk.
🔎 Why does this happen?
A poor latch isn’t always visible—sometimes, the problem is inside your baby’s mouth.
Even healthcare providers can overlook subtle latch issues that lead to pain and frustration.
Proper breastfeeding positioning and technique make all the difference.
✨ How to know if your latch is truly right:
Your baby’s lips should flange outward, and their chin should be deep into your breast.
You should feel a gentle tugging, NOT pinching or biting pain.
If pain persists, something is off—you don’t have to suffer through it!
💡 Want to learn how to assess and fix your baby’s latch? My Latching with Confidence course walks you through exactly what to look for so you can finally experience pain-free breastfeeding.
Myth #3: The Nipple-to-Nose Technique Guarantees a Good Latch
You may have heard that aligning your baby’s nose to the nipple is the secret to a deep latch. While this technique is popular, it’s not the whole picture—and sometimes, it can cause more frustration than success.
What’s the problem?
❌ Many babies tuck their chin too much, leading to a shallow latch.
❌ If your baby’s mouth doesn’t open wide enough, you’ll feel pain, even if the positioning looks right.
❌ A poor latch can cause low milk transfer, leading to slow weight gain and constant feedings.
✅ The real key to a great latch? Focus on chin extension to trigger the gape reflex.
💡 In my "Latching with Confidence" class, I teach moms a better way to position baby for comfortable, effective feeds—without the trial and error.
How to Breastfeed with Confidence
These breastfeeding myths can make new moms doubt themselves, but knowledge is power. Once you understand how breastfeeding really works, you can move forward with confidence and ease.
🔥 Want expert guidance & real support?
✔️ Step-by-step latching techniques to prevent pain
✔️ Troubleshooting tips to fix latch issues fast
✔️ Exclusive access to my support community
📣 Join Latching with Confidence and get a FREE MONTH inside the Confident MamaBear Society for live coaching, personalized support, and expert insight to help you navigate every stage of breastfeeding with clarity and confidence.
✨ Let’s change the narrative—breastfeeding doesn’t have to be painful or frustrating!
Comments