Published on November 2, 2026
By Hui Ling Ooi, Certified Lactation Counsellor (SKM-4), KindTouch Penang
As if learning to feed a newborn wasn’t enough, there was also the commentary.
“Your milk isn’t enough.”
“Baby needs water.”
And, of course, the classic warning: “You breastfeed so long, later your breasts will sag!”
Aiyo. I am trying to feed a tiny human. Why are we suddenly discussing the future position of my breasts?
Maybe you have heard other versions too:
“Your breasts are so small. Got enough milk meh?”
“Baby keeps wanting milk? Must be your milk isn’t filling.”
“Still breastfeeding? So big already!”
Apparently, motherhood comes with a free panel of advisers. Nobody applied for the job, but everyone has an opinion.
Some comments come from concern. Some come from what people were taught years ago. But even well-meant advice can leave a new mother frightened and questioning herself – especially when it is repeated with absolute confidence.
And the sagging warning? Why scare a mother who is already trying to find her feet? Her wellbeing and her baby’s health deserve more attention than predictions about her appearance.
Our breasts change throughout life. Pregnancy, ageing, skin elasticity and changes in weight can all affect their shape. Changes after pregnancy can happen whether a woman breastfeeds or not.
But somehow breastfeeding gets called into the office to explain everything.
Gravity has been working seven days a week for years, yet breastfeeding gets the complaint letter.
Of course we can care about how our breasts look. Becoming a mother does not mean we stop having feelings about our bodies.
A comfortable, well-fitting bra can provide support. Gentle breast care can be part of looking after ourselves. When it is time to wean, reducing feeds gradually helps our bodies adjust. We also deserve nourishment and time to recover, rather than pressure to follow a crash diet.
But none of these is a guarantee against sagging. Massage has not been shown to lift breasts or prevent sagging, and wearing the “correct” bra cannot promise that either. Gradual weaning helps reduce the risk of engorgement and mastitis; it is not a proven way to prevent sagging.
I would rather give mothers honest information than replace one frightening myth with another promise they feel responsible for achieving.
A change in breast shape does not mean you breastfed for too long, wore the wrong bra or failed to massage enough.
Our bodies change. We are allowed to care for them without treating every change as a mistake.
Looking back at my first breastfeeding experience in 2015, this is one of my biggest lessons: someone can sound very sure and still be wrong.
“I did this with all my children” tells me about your experience. It does not automatically tell me what is appropriate for my baby.
That is why knowledge became so important to me. I wanted to understand the reasons behind the advice, check reliable sources and know when to ask a trained professional.
Family experience can offer comfort and practical help. But when it comes to feeding advice, we should be able to ask, “What is this based on?”
The answer needs to be more than “Aunty said so” – even if Aunty says it very loudly.
And that is what I want for the mothers I support today.
You deserve explanations. You deserve support that considers your circumstances. And you are allowed to say:
“Thank you for caring. I’m following current guidance and getting help with anything I’m unsure about.”
Or, on the days when you have less energy:
“Thank you, aunty. Can help me bring lunch instead?”
Because sometimes the most useful breastfeeding support is a meal, a glass of water for Mum and a little less commentary.
My six years of breastfeeding two children are part of what I bring to my work at KindTouch, alongside my training as a certified lactation counsellor.
If conflicting advice has left you unsure, you do not have to figure everything out alone. Whether you are preparing to breastfeed or have questions about your current feeding journey, individual guidance can help you understand your options.
For lactation counselling and breastfeeding support in Penang, message me on WhatsApp to ask about appointments.
Motherhood already comes with enough questions. You deserve support that helps you feel informed, heard and cared for.
This article shares personal experience and general education. Individual feeding or health concerns need appropriate assessment. WhatsApp is not an emergency service.
I’m here to help you find the right support and guidance.
