Breastfeeding While Pregnant

Normally, there is no problem in breastfeeding while pregnant. The stimulation of the nipple when breastfeeding produces the hormones called oxytocin that makes milk and prolactin to contract uterus. These hormones are usually not a problem for pregnancy. All the mother needs to do is ensure that she is taking enough nutrients for herself, baby and the fetus. Scientific studies have shown that the mother’s body alters the nutrients found in breast milk. Initially, it was toted out that your body needed extra calories when breastfeeding, rather than the components of your breastfeeding diet. But now its reverse is assumed to be important – what constitutes your diet is more significant than the calorie intake. Also drink the necessary fluids, around a gallon of water, as both lactation and pregnancy necessitates monitoring of adequate quantity of water.

Problems Arising When Breastfeeding While Pregnant

• Some mothers due to fatigue or sore nipples wean their babies.
• Mothers stop breastfeeding due to the fear of not having enough nutrition for the fetus or for the older child.
• Placental hormones during pregnancy can be the result of minimizing milk production by directing the nutrients to the fetus; thereby the older baby can be subjected to undesirable slowing in growth from the dwindling supply of milk, unless it is supplemented.
• If there is the risk of pre-term labor, consider the option of weaning, if suckling is responsible for causing contractions that initiates labor or if there is a miscarriage history.
• If the elder baby is a premature baby some mothers feel that they have to wean the baby to stop the danger of another premature delivery.
• The quality of breast milk and its quantity can change as protein and sodium content is raised, whereas the glucose and lactose quantity are reduced making the breast milk taste like colostrum. It can result in some babies losing interest, as they don’t like the taste of the milk and stops nursing slowly.
• Some pregnant mothers feel terrible pain when the baby sucks, especially in the beginning due to tender breasts or sore nipples. By concentrating on relaxing and employing different breathing techniques, pain can be reduced particularly at the end of the first trimester.
• Mothers might feel drained off energy.
• Breast milk can dry naturally.
• The baby may bite
• Mother developing mastitis or any other breast infections.

However in most cases, especially in developing countries mothers continue breastfeeding while pregnant, as there is no immediate requirement of weaning. Generally, it is individual decision if there is no harm in breastfeeding while pregnant. Closely monitor the weight of the older baby and if there is any decline in weight, supplement the breast milk with formula. To stay well nourished with a regular balanced, nutritious, healthy and varied diet, eat extra calories and consume vital supplements. Furthermore, seek the advice of a nutritionist. You can do the double work of breastfeeding and pregnancy, until you get the doctor’s advice or your child reaches a particular age.