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Is it safe to continue breastfeeding during pregnancy?
Embarking on the journey of pregnancy while breastfeeding can bring many questions and concerns. This blog post is dedicated to expectant and breastfeeding women who want to know what is clear and reliable. We explore the realities of breastfeeding during pregnancy, led by the expertise of Bonnie Forbes from Mammas Here Lactation.
Bonnie, is a Neonatal Nurse and Internationally Certified Breastfeeding Instructor having worked in the neonatal intensive care nursery and neonatal intensive care for most of her career. Although a devoted mother of two children under 3 years old and still breastfeeding, her professional desire is to provide her with the knowledge and skills to support new families in their breastfeeding journey or choice.
Her experience comes from caring for premature or sick babies in the NICU and Special Care Nursery. Support and engage with new families in the community as a lactation consultant. It is her new business as a private IBCLC “Mamma’s Here Lactation” that focuses on the Melbourne community, Regional Victoria and Australia as a whole. It’s video calling as a form of face-to-face communication. Ensuring that all have access to his unique skills.
We asked Bonnie to talk about breastfeeding during pregnancy and share everything we need to know.
Is breastfeeding good during pregnancy?
One of the first questions that arise is about the safety of continuing breastfeeding while expecting another child. Bonnie shares “The good news is, for most women, it’s very safe.” The most important lesson of 2019 including a large group of Victorian hospitals, the findings were encouraging, showing no strong evidence that breastfeeding should be stopped during pregnancy. This study is very important because it provides motivation, dispelling many myths and misconceptions about this topic. However, Bonnie emphasizes the importance of considering an individual’s health history, especially in the case of repeated miscarriages, premature births, or expecting multiples. Seeing a doctor is very important to address any concerns and to ensure that you are in the best possible health situation for your baby.
Understanding changes in milk supply and nipple sensitivity
During pregnancy, your body prepares for the new baby, which can cause changes in breast milk production and breast enlargement. One major change is the transition from mature milk to colostrum production, which begins between the fourth and eighth month of pregnancy, although it can happen earlier in some women. Bonnie shares that these natural changes are necessary to give your newborn the colostrum they need, but it’s nice to know that these changes don’t interfere with your older breastfed baby’s diet. They will still receive the benefits of breastfeeding without destroying the colostrum stored in the newborns. However, you may notice a change in their eating habits, when the taste of your milk changes and they may feed less or stop breastfeeding. Colostrum also has a natural laxative effect, which can also affect your nursing baby.
Along with this change in milk, many women notice an increase in breast size and sensitivity during pregnancy, Bonnie’s phenomenon is due to the increase in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. The nipples and areola may also change, becoming larger and darker in pigment. However, this increased sensitivity can sometimes cause discomfort. Bonnie suggests gentle care options, such as wearing a well-fitting, non-wired blanket and using cold packs for relaxation. It is also important to pay attention to the pressure of the water in your shower and choose clothes that reduce friction with sensitive areas. Understanding and adapting to these changes is critical to a comfortable and successful breastfeeding experience.
Breastfeeding your newborn and older baby
Many mothers wonder if they can breastfeed their newborn and older baby at the same time. The answer is yes. When your new baby arrives, it’s best to start breastfeeding first. This ensures that your baby receives the necessary nutrients and benefits of early breastfeeding, including correct latch and adequate milk intake, which are very important in the early stages.
When your baby is breastfeeding, you can breastfeed your older child. Some mothers choose to temporarily stop breastfeeding their older child during the initial initiation of breastfeeding with an infant. This period is very important in order to adapt to the different needs and feeding habits of an infant compared to an older or younger child.
Important tips for breastfeeding
Breastfeeding while pregnant requires extra care and attention to your body’s needs. Make sure you are eating enough calories – 500 to 650 calories are recommended. Wearing a well-fitting, non-wired bra and practicing self-care for breasts and sore breasts and nipples are important.
Fighting stomach infections during pregnancy
It is not uncommon to hate breastfeeding during pregnancy. This can range from discomfort to a strong emotional response. Acknowledge these feelings and ask for help. It is important to get help and advice from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) to help you overcome any problems and ensure a successful feeding. Their guidance can be invaluable in managing the physical and emotional aspects of breastfeeding two children at different developmental stages.
For more information and support on your breastfeeding journey, visit The Circle, at Lactamo. Our goal is to provide you with the information and care you need during this special time.
Where can I get help and support?
Australian and New Zealand Breastfeeding Consultants can help Find a lactation consultant near you.
Ask your doctor, midwife, obstetrician, or health care provider to connect you with a local lactation consultant.
The Australian Breastfeeding Association they have many resources available including a 24-hour helpline for new mothers, face-to-face consultations, and online classes.