If you become pregnant before your baby is weaned completely, in most cases you can continue to breastfeed during the new pregnancy. Although breastfeeding is possible and even beneficial when pregnant with another baby, it may come with a few frustrations and difficulties. Make a few adjustments to your diet and lifestyle to best cope with the situation.
Disadvantages
Breastfeeding during pregnancy can be uncomfortable. Your nipples may be sore and tender from pregnancy; breastfeeding makes your nipples even more sensitive, which may exacerbate pain and discomfort. Pregnancy also triggers fatigue, which is intensified by breastfeeding. In addition, around the fifth month of your pregnancy, your body produces less milk and the milk will change back to colostrum, the thicker milk that is intended to feed your new baby. The change in taste may be noticeable and unfavorable to your baby.
Diet
If breastfeeding while you are pregnant, increase your fluid and calorie intake. Add about 800 extra calories to your diet -- that's about 300 calories for your unborn baby and 500 to maintain your milk production. Drink approximately eight glasses of water or other fluids every day to keep hydrated and continue producing enough milk for your baby.
When to Wean
In some instances, it is best to wean your baby off of breast milk or switch to formula if you become pregnant with another baby. For instance, it can be dangerous to breastfeed while pregnant if you have suffered from a previous miscarriage; you are currently or have experienced any type of bleeding; or you have gone into premature labor with any previous pregnancies, BabyCentre reports.
Contractions
Talk to your doctor to ensure that breastfeeding while pregnant is safe for you. Breastfeeding often triggers mild contractions of the uterus. Although mild contractions such as these are not typically dangerous, they can sometimes complicate a pregnancy -- especially if you have any ongoing pregnancy issues. The hormone oxytocin is released while breastfeeding to help improve milk production and flow. Unfortunately, this hormone can sometimes also trigger contractions.
