Do you know your breastfeeding basics? A survey carried out by the Department of Health in England showed how many misunderstandings are flying around the general public regarding breastfeeding.

The survey discovered that over a third of women (34%) believed that modern formula milks were very similar or the same as a mothers breast milk. The truth is that breast milk is produced for each individual baby by the mother to meet all it's immunity, development and digesting needs. The breast milk contains many enzymes, cells and antibodies that protects the baby and helps them fight infections.

Here's a few more breastfeeding myths busted: 1. It ruins your boobs
The survey also found that a fifth of young women ages 16-24 believe that breastfeeding would ruin the shape of their breasts and body. This is an understandable one as celebrity culture sends out the message that after birth a lot of famous women book in for boobs jobs and tummy tucks. The reality is that breastfeeding can burn up to a massive 500 calories per day, so it's a great way to regain your shape quickly. In the long term the breast shape changes little.

2. If it doesn't come naturally, you should give up
The scary statistic is that 95% of women believe that breastfeeding comes naturally to some and not to others. This is worrying as it sets a high expectation for new mothers who may feel a failure for not taking to it immediately. Breastfeeding is something that needs to be taught, both to the mother and the child, so this theory is also a myth.

3. People are disgusted by women breastfeeding in public
The study also suggested that 67% of women believed that the general public find breastfeeding in public unacceptable. The truth? 84% of people think it's fine to breastfeed a baby as long as it's discreet. There are some great breastfeeding covers and tops that make this possible so there's no need to feel any shame about feeding your baby!

Have you come across any breastfeeding myths?

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