Breastfeeding During Your Pregnancy

You do not have to refrain from breastfeeding your son or daughter simply because you happen to be pregnant again.  In the past, it was commonly believed among physicians that the act of breastfeeding was somehow depriving the baby in your belly of essential nutrients.  Research has now proven this to be an erroneous belief,  yet there are those among the public who will not be convinced no matter what you tell them.  Its best not to get drawn into an argument with them.  The only person who can decide whether or not you should continue to breastfeed your toddler is you.  Do not allow somebody elso to make the decision on your behalf.

REASONS FOR STOPPING:

Although no harm is being caused to the baby inside, there are some good reasons why you might choose not to continue breastfeeding.  First, it may be draining you of all your energy and leaving you consistently exhausted.  Also, your toddler may have begun to bite your nipple when he or she feeds.  If your milk supply has begun to dry up, it may be your body telling you its time you took a little break.  A very good reason for stopping right away is if you happen to develop mastitis, or an infection of the milk ducts which results from engorged milk ducts.

If you end up deciding that you want to stop the breastfeeding as a result of your new pregnancy, be sure that it is due to the right reason.  It may also be the best thing if your child has reached the appropriate age, yet it is not a good idea to simply stop altogether at once.  Your child will likely react strongly to this sudden and unexpected change.  They may associate this with the arrival of their new baby brother or sister, and you do not want this to happen.

 To slowly wean your child off the breast is the best way to do it.  Start by limiting the feeding times only to certain times of the day and continue from there.  This will ensure that the change is not traumatic to your child and in all likelihood, he or she will end up weaning themselves and will never think anything of it.  This will also go a long way toward easing any guilt you may feel over depriving your child of your breast.

REASONS FOR CONTINUING:

It is important that you consult your doctor if you choose to continue with the breastfeeding during your new pregnancy.  The doctor will not always agree with this decision, and he or she may have a good reason for feeling this way.  Pay attention to the advice and determine whether it is based on sound concerns about your health, or simply on a previously held belief.  If it is the latter, you may need to switch to a doctor who is supportive of your decision. 

Your friends and family members will, in all likelihood, also have to put in their two-cents worth in terms of what they believe you should do.  You will probably be the recipient of all sorts of advice concerning how best to stop and the latest news they have heard.  You must be polite yet firm, and let them know that this is a decision which you have made, and that you made it based on what you believe to be the best interest of your children.

A local support group such as La Leche League is a good option if you choose to continue.  This will give you a place to vent or simply a supportive ear for those times when you need to talk about these issues.  Keep in mind that so long as you properly take care of your body and your overall health, continuing to breastfeed throughout your new pregnancy is an entirely safe thing to do.

Recommended Resources
www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/preg_breastfeeding_during.html
www.kellymom.com/bf
www.moonlily.com/obc