Can breast milk go stale? Common breastfeeding myths debunked

This guide empowers new mothers with the knowledge they need for a successful breastfeeding journey.

By: Lifestyle Desk
New Delhi | March 17, 2024 09:28 AM IST

5 min read

Recently, Dr Madhavi Bharadwaj, a pediatrician, took to Instagram to debunk some of the most prevalent breastfeeding myths. (Source: Freepik)

When it comes to parenting, few topics elicit as much debate and discussion as breastfeeding. From ancient folklore to modern-day misconceptions, confusion around breastfeeding still persists, often clouding the judgment of new mothers and hindering their breastfeeding journey. Recently, Dr Madhavi Bharadwaj, a pediatrician, took to Instagram to demystify some of the most prevalent breastfeeding myths.

Myth #1: You should avoid breastfeeding if you’re sick

According to Dr Gayatri Deshpande, head of the department of gynaecology and obstetrics at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, mothers can continue breastfeeding even when they have a viral fever, as the production of antibodies in response to the illness can be beneficial for the infant. “This will provide the baby with protection against the same illness. If the mother is too exhausted, she can express breast milk for feeding,” she told indianexpress.com in an interaction.

In cases of COVID-19 or Hepatitis B, Dr Deshpande explained that breastfeeding is still recommended because it provides the infant with crucial IgA antibodies. “However, the baby may also require vaccinations and immunoglobulins at birth for additional protection.”

As for HIV, mothers can breastfeed if they are on antiretroviral therapy, while mothers with active tuberculosis can only breastfeed the baby while being under treatment and no longer contagious, Dr Deshpande said.

“A pediatrician’s opinion must be sought as the baby may need to be vaccinated. All precautions such as masking, washing hands, or airway transmission should be taken care of in case of TB or COVID-19,” she added.

Myth #2: Mothers must avoid breastfeeding on medications

Breast milk is uniquely tailored to meet the nutritional needs of infants, providing antibodies, enzymes, and nutrients that support their growth and development. (Source: Freepik)

Dr Ritu Sethi, gynaecologist & obstetrician, director of The Aura Specialty Clinic Gurgaon and associate director at Max Hospitals, Gurgaon, said that many medications are compatible with breastfeeding, but some can pass into breast milk and potentially affect the baby. Some medications, such as anticonvulsants or psychiatric medicines, can be secreted into breast milk.

Hence, mothers who are on medications should consult with their healthcare provider or a lactation specialist to determine whether it’s safe to breastfeed while taking those medications, noted Dr Sethi.

Story continues below this ad

Myth #3: Breast milk can go stale

While milk in the breast tissue can never go stale as it is in a sterile environment away from bacteria, expressed breast milk after a certain duration can get spoiled. “However, this is not the same as other foods turning stale. Fresh breast milk is usually safe for consumption for up to 4 hours, depending on the temperature and cleanliness of the environment. When stored in the refrigerator, it can typically last for up to about 4-8 days. Meanwhile in a freezer, it can remain safe for consumption for several months,” Dr Sethi said.

ALSO READ | Five breastfeeding secrets every new mother should know

Other breastfeeding myths debunked

Dr Deshpande and Dr Sethi listed the following:

Taste of breast milk depends on the mother’s diet: The notion that a baby can taste flavours such as spicy or tangy through the milk, based on their mother’s diet, is false. The composition of breast milk remains consistent regardless of the mother’s diet.
Strict breastfeeding schedules are necessary: It is recommended to ‘breastfeed on demand,’ as this supports both milk production and infant needs.
Mothers must keep switching breasts while feeding: While it is good to use both breasts for feeding, it is advisable to feed from one breast at a time to ensure the baby receives both the foremilk, which is rich in lactose, and the hindmilk, which is high in lactoferrin protein. The mother should allow the baby to feed until they naturally stop on one breast to ensure they receive a balance of both for optimal nutrition.
Formula is as good as breast milk: Breast milk is uniquely tailored to meet the nutritional needs of infants, providing antibodies, enzymes, and nutrients that support their growth and development. While formula can be a suitable alternative in certain situations, it cannot replicate the complex composition of breast milk.
Breastfeeding is easy and natural, so everyone can do it: While breastfeeding is indeed a natural process, it doesn’t always come easily or instinctively to every mother and baby. For some, it takes time, practice, and patience to establish a successful breastfeeding relationship.
Breast size determines milk production: Milk production is primarily controlled by hormones and stimulation, not breast size. Women with small breasts can produce ample milk for their babies, just as those with larger breasts can.
You can’t get pregnant while breastfeeding: While breastfeeding can delay the return of fertility in some women, it is not a reliable form of contraception. It’s still possible to ovulate and conceive while breastfeeding, so consider using contraception if you’re not ready for another pregnancy.