Both of our children were over two years old, when I became pregnant. Here are 7 things to consider when breastfeeding while pregnant.
1. Nursing a Toddler Is Different From Nursing A Newborn
Toddlers definitely feed less frequently than newborns.
In other words, while newborns latch on multiple times during the day, our then two-year-old could go days without nursing. She would only need the breast if she was hurt and sometimes if she was sleepy. Our then three-year-old, still loved nursing at bed time while I was pregnant.
2. It Hurts
Breast tenderness was one of the first signs of pregnancy. Not only did latching on hurt, but I could actually feel our children pulling the milk from my breast.
To alleviate the discomfort, I would often distract them by wrapping them to my body, reading to them until they fell asleep, or giving them another warm drink like milk, tea or hot cocoa.
3. Baby May Still Want To Nurse
Even though I’ve heard the taste of the milk may change during pregnancy both of our girls did not seem bothered by it. So they continued to nurse.
4. Breast Will Get Bigger
I haven’t noticed an increase in breast size, but my husband has. I’m typically braless, so this doesn’t bother me.
5. Need More Water
Now that I am breastfeeding while creating a new human, I am more serious about drinking at least 100 ounces of water a day.
6. Extra Nutrition Is Better Than More Calories
At 5'5, 180 pounds, I'm confident I have a healthy fat storage. However, I still feel fatigued as if my body is craving more than just food. My doctor has me drinking herbal teas for the minerals, vitamins and extra nutrition to support my pregnancy.
7. Find New Ways To Pour Into Yourself
I am exhausted! It's probably the combination of this being my third pregnancy, my body literally taking everything from me to feed this child, and the fact that I'm still producing milk for a four year old.
By exhausted, I mean there are times my body feels so heavy, I am unable to roll out of bed and don't have the slighest of energy to open my eye lids.
At this point, I'm focusing on resting, hydrating, walking, and soaking up as much sun as possible.
Are you breastfeeding while pregnant? What has your experience been? Any tips you want to share?
Until next time.
Love Thyself,
Frequently Asked Breastfeeding Questions...
