Becoming pregnant can pose many challenges while you’re caring for your baby or toddler, but it is possible to look out for everyone’s interests at the same time. Most women will be able to continue to breast-feed while pregnant, but it’s wise to ask your doctor for permission to continue nursing.
Benefits
Continuing to nurse through pregnancy ensures that your child maintains the same schedule and nutrition to which she is accustomed. You’re also bound to be frequently tired during pregnancy, and breast-feeding allows you to continue your bond with your child so she doesn’t feel neglected. Since nursing costs you nothing, it’s also beneficial if you’re trying to save money for the new baby. But this reason alone should not be reason you choose to continue nursing.
Risks
The biggest risk of breast-feeding while pregnant is that nursing can boost the production of the hormone oxytocin, which can cause small contractions in your uterus. These contractions can cause you to go into labor before your baby is ready. However, these contractions are perfectly safe in most cases. In fact, you’ll experience the same contractions when having sex, which is generally safe for pregnant women to do. Your doctor will likely advise you not to breast-feed or have sex if you’re already at risk for preterm labor.
Caring For Your Child
As you enter your second trimester, your milk supply may slow down. If you notice your baby seems hungry after feedings or is losing weight, you’ll need to supplement his diet with formula. Also, since your newborn will require a thick type of milk called colostrum during her first few days, your milk may change in texture or taste toward the end of your pregnancy. Your baby or toddler may not care for the change and stop drinking from the breast. This may also be a sign it’s time to start feeding your baby formula.
Caring For Yourself
Many women notice their nipples become sensitive during pregnancy, so feeding your child can cause discomfort. If she’s old enough to understand, ask her to suck gently and feed her more often for shorter periods of time. Changing her position frequently may also help. It’s essential that you eat a healthy diet as you must have enough energy to nourish both children. Eat frequent, nutritious meals full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein and drink water throughout the day. Your doctor may also prescribe additional prenatal vitamins.
