Under the right conditions, breastfeeding can be an effective form of birth control. But fertility returns for different women at different times, and it is possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding. It is even possible to conceive with your first ovulation before you have your first post-partum period. Here are some signs that you might be pregnant during breastfeeding.
Missed Period
If your periods have returned, the first sign of pregnancy may be a missed period. However, you can get pregnant before your periods return if you conceive when you ovulate for the first time post-partum.
Sore Nipples
One sign of pregnancy in a breastfeeding mom is nipples are suddenly sore. Sore nipples can also be caused by ovulation, premenstrual hormonal changes, a teething baby or thrush. If you are pregnant, nipple soreness may resolve at the end of the first trimester, or continue throughout your pregnancy.
Morning Sickness
Nausea can be a sign of pregnancy when you are breastfeeding. Morning sickness usually resolves around the twelfth week of pregnancy.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a sign of early pregnancy. If there have been no other changes in your life, fatigue could be a pregnancy symptom.
Changes in Milk Production
When you are pregnant, the taste of your milk may change, especially in the second trimester. Many nursing babies do not like this change in taste and may begin to wean. Other babies seem to be fine with the change. Your milk production may not be able to keep up with your baby's demands as your body's energy resources are split between your pregnancy and milk production; usually additional nutrition and rest will compensate for this. Your milk may seem thinner during pregnancy, or be more like colostrum, especially near delivery.
Uterine Contractions
Uterine contractions are normal during breastfeeding; in fact, breastfeeding is an excellent way to help your uterus return to its normal state after childbirth. If you notice a change in your uterine contractions during breastfeeding, however, it could be a sign of pregnancy. Oxytocin, the hormone associated with milk let-down and uterine contractions, is produced in increasing amounts during pregnancy. Unless you are at risk for miscarriage or preterm labor, breastfeeding can continue until your new child is born.
