Many new mothers mistakenly think that breastfeeding alone will prevent them from becoming pregnant again. While breastfeeding can help prevent another pregnancy, breastfeeding is not a fool-proof way to prevent pregnancy. Mothers who are breastfeeding and sexually active need to know the signs of pregnancy that may present while breastfeeding. Not knowing these risks can lead to health issues for you and your new pregnancy. Some signs of a new pregnancy will be evident to you, while others will only be evident to your breastfeeding child.
Missed Period
While it is common for a breastfeeding mother to not have a period, once you start your period a missed period can be a sign of pregnancy. A missed period is not a guaranteed sign of pregnancy because your hormones can vary while breastfeeding a child. If you do not want to become pregnant, you need to start a birth control method before you have your first period.
Change in Breast Milk
You may notice a change in your baby's interest in nursing when a new pregnancy begins. Your changing hormones can change the taste of breast milk. The nursing baby may also begin to lose interest in breastfeeding due to this taste change. Some babies will not care about the change in taste, so your baby's reaction to breast milk should not be used as a sole determination of pregnancy.
Lack of Energy
While many new parents are lacking in energy, a severe lack of energy on your part can be a sign of pregnancy while breastfeeding. Breastfeeding mothers who become pregnant are more susceptible to exhaustion and must make an effort to rest whenever possible.
Morning Sickness
Nausea, or morning sickness, can be an early sign of pregnancy. Nausea leads you to feel like you will vomit without actually becoming sick. More severe morning sickness can lead to you actually vomiting. While morning sickness can be a sign of pregnancy in a breastfeeding mother, it can also be a sign of virus. If it continues, it should be diagnosed by a doctor.
Pregnancy Test
A positive pregnancy test is a definite sign of pregnancy. A pregnancy test should be performed if there is any reason to believe that you are pregnant. A positive home pregnancy test should be followed up with a test with an obstetrician or gynecologist.
