In today’s digital world, new parents are turning to social media for almost everything. From pregnancy tips to baby sleep schedules to breastfeeding advice. While online communities can offer support and solidarity, they can also be a breeding ground for misinformation. Unfortunately, many high-profile parenting influencers share opinions and practices that are not supported by scientific evidence.

For breastfeeding families, this can have a direct and damaging impact on their feeding journeys. As Certified Breastfeeding Counselors (CBCs), we have the chance to guide parents toward accurate, reliable information that supports their goals.

Ways Influencers Can Negatively Impact Feeding

Promoting Unverified “Hacks”

From recommending alternatives to safe nipple creams to untested supplements, influencers might recommend products without credible research to back them up. This can be especially true if an influencer is paid to promote an item, or they sell an item.

These “quick fixes” can at best just waste parents money but at worst could delay parents getting appropriate support for real breastfeeding issues. It can also create unrealistic expectations. Suggesting a supplement to increase milk supply without addressing the why for perceived low milk supply can create a lot of issues.

Is baby not effectively transferring milk leading to a lower supply? Is the supply fine and it is just a perceived low supply during a growth spurt? An influencer may not be addressing any real problems.

Oversimplifying Complex Challenges

Some influencers frame breastfeeding as either “easy if you do it right” or “too hard to be worth it.” Both extremes can harm parents. This could be by making them feel like failures if they struggle or by discouraging them before they’ve even started.

Breastfeeding is the next physiological step after pregnancy and can often go really well. However, it does not mean there isn’t a learning curve or that qualified support is sometimes needed. Many mother baby pairs can breastfeed, however, support can be needed.

Encouraging Practices That Can Harm Milk Supply

Advice such as rigid feeding schedules, early weaning without medical reason, or unnecessary formula supplementation can directly impact milk production and breastfeeding success. Sleep “experts” on social media can be all the rage. Obviously new parents are tired and often desperate for sleep.

However, rigid sleep schedules can help a few babies sleep longer, but it comes with the risk of negatively impacting milk supply. This is especially true the younger the baby is.

Spreading Misinformation About Lactation Science

From claiming “breastmilk loses nutrients after six months” to insisting certain foods must be avoided, misinformation can cause unnecessary anxiety or lead to premature breastfeeding cessation.

Not every fussy baby needs mom to be dairy free. A certain hydration beverage will not magically impact milk supply. Parents rarely need to pump and dump but should work with a qualified lactation professional if there’s a potential need for that.

The Role of the CBC in Counteracting Misinformation

As a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor, you’re not just providing in person support. You’re helping parents navigate a noisy, opinion-filled digital landscape with confidence. Here’s how:

Build Trust Before Birth

If you’re working with parents prenatally, establish yourself as a go-to resource for evidence-based information early on. The more trust you build before the baby arrives, the more likely they are to come to you instead of social media when questions arise.

Validate, Then Redirect

If a parent shares influencer advice they’ve heard, avoid dismissing it outright. Instead, validate their desire to learn, then offer clear, research-backed alternatives:

“I see why that sounds appealing. What research actually shows is…”

Provide Accessible, Evidence-Based Resources

Parents don’t always have time to sift through scientific journals. Provide easy-to-read handouts, videos, or links from reputable organizations like the WHO, CDC, and the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine.

I provide parents with a resource list filled with links to evidence-based sources sorted by topic so they can easily find the information they’re looking for.

Teach Critical Thinking for Online Content
Empower parents to question sources:

• Who is giving the advice?
• Do they cite credible research?
• Is it backed by health organizations or peer-reviewed studies?

Use Social Media for Good

Meet parents where they are—online. Share your own short, engaging, evidence-based posts to counter misinformation before it takes root.

The rise of non-evidence-based influencers isn’t going away anytime soon. But as CBCs, we have the tools to protect and empower parents. By offering clear, compassionate, and credible guidance, we help families avoid misinformation traps, make informed decisions, and ultimately achieve their breastfeeding goals.

In a world of viral “hacks” and trending myths, your voice—grounded in evidence and empathy—can make all the difference.