A local lactation consultant clears up common myths around breastfeeding

August is National Breastfeeding Month, a time to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding and support new families.

A local lactation expert says it shouldn’t be so confusing.

“One of the biggest myths is that breastfeeding has to be hard,” said certified lactation consultant Maureen Mills. “It doesn’t have to be, as long as you’re educated.”

The Maryland-based pediatric nurse owns a business called “The Baby Pro,” which provides consultations for new parents and guides them through the challenges of having a newborn.

“I do lots of prenatal visits helping moms and dads,” she said. “The more education people have, the more they’re going to feel comfortable moving forward.”

Mills spoke with WTOP about the most common breastfeeding misperceptions and helped clear up some of the confusion.

Her main piece of advice for new parents: Don’t stress.

“Make sure you ask questions, but don’t Google everything,” she said.

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