Being pregnant while breastfeeding your older child can foster a unique and beautiful bond between you and your little ones. However, it can also present some challenges. Hormonal changes may affect your milk supply, and it’s essential to consume plenty of nutrients to support both your pregnancy and breastfeeding. Additionally, the change in your breast milk may impact your baby’s eating habits and nutritional needs.
Safety Risks?
For the most part, breastfeeding while pregnant is completely safe. However, breastfeeding can stimulate uterine contractions. If you have experienced a recent miscarriage, preterm labor, or are considered high-risk for any reason, consult with a midwife or OBGYN in collaboration with a Board-Certified Lactation Consultant.
Comfort Levels
Nipple tenderness and pain during the first trimester and throughout pregnancy can make the nursing experience uncomfortable.
Simple Remedies to Make Nursing More Comfortable:
- Apply nipple cream to soothe and protect.
- Use warm water or warm breast milk to rinse the area.
- Allow your nipples to air dry completely after feeding.
If these symptoms are caused by a change in latch with your child, book an appointment with a local breastfeeding counselor or Board-Certified Lactation Consultant. A professional can help you re-establish a deep latch and provide guidance to continue nursing successfully and comfortably throughout your pregnancy.
Changes in Your Supply
You may notice a decrease in your milk supply as your pregnancy progresses due to hormonal changes. Although this happens to some women, it doesn’t happen to all. Breastfeeding is unique to each individual. It may be more challenging or impossible to increase your supply during pregnancy, but you can still provide valuable nutrients to your little one by continuing to breastfeed. Don’t let this discourage you.
Simple Tips to Help:
- Get plenty of rest.
- Stay well-hydrated.
- Eat nutritious meals.
Important Nutrients to Maintain a Strong Supply:
- Vitamin B12: eggs, poultry, dairy products.
- Vitamin A: carrots, red bell peppers, cantaloupe, mango.
- Vitamin D: salmon, egg yolk.
- Calcium: milk, cheese, yogurt, dark leafy green vegetables.
- Fiber: beans, lentils, oats, potatoes.
- Whole grains: brown rice, whole wheat pasta, oatmeal (avoid refined carbs).
- Folic Acid.
- Healthy fats: nuts, avocados, salmon.
- Iron: red meat, chicken, green leafy vegetables.
What to Keep in Mind Based on Your Breastfed Child’s Age
- Children Under One Year: If your child is exclusively breastfed, you may need to introduce more frequent, extra feeds.
- Older Toddlers: Your body will begin producing colostrum again, which has a saltier taste and thicker texture. This might lead to self-weaning in some toddlers.
What about Colostrum?
It’s common for breastfeeding mothers to wonder if they will produce colostrum for their new baby. Absolutely! After giving birth and the placenta is delivered, a drop in estrogen triggers your body to produce colostrum. Typically, the colostrum phase is shorter with subsequent babies. You can successfully produce milk during pregnancy for your breastfeeding child and produce colostrum once your newborn arrives. With this understanding, you can confidently nurse your child throughout pregnancy!
Need More Support?
If you’re feeling discouraged, consider scheduling time with a Lactation Consultant. Sometimes, all we need is guidance, support, and encouragement on our breastfeeding journey to be successful. You’re doing great, Mama!
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