When it comes to breastfeeding, sometimes young mothers are usually confused about what to do especially in a situation where there is a child in weaning and another child on the way. Usually, the best sources of guidance remain a health center or an accessible primary care clinic.
But, it is also important to consume as much knowledge as possible so that you can take the right steps during a phase like this. As you follow the advice of a medical expert, here are a few things you should know about handling breastfeeding along with being pregnant.
Is breastfeeding safe during pregnancy?
It is not surprising to find out that you are pregnant while still weaning another child. It is very normal to fall pregnant unexpectedly and it shouldn’t be a cause for alarm.
It is very safe for you to breastfeed during another pregnancy. Your body will cater to the needs of both children without much effect on your health. Although you might experience mild contractions (as a result of the release of oxytocin by breastfeeding), these are completely safe for women with uncomplicated pregnancies.
However, if you have a history of miscarriages or are at risk of preterm labor, then it is usually suggested that you consult your gynecologist or health care specialist.
What should I expect?
As you handle the responsibilities of being a pregnant and breastfeeding mother at the same time, your body will change. One of the very first is the change in your breast milk. As your pregnancy progresses, your body changes might cause a reduction in breast milk production and the taste will change as colostrum is being produced.
The changes you will experience will be majorly influenced by hormonal shifts and fluctuations. To better position yourself, endeavor to watch the content of your diet.
Side effects of breastfeeding while pregnant
Concerning the change, your body will undergo, there might be certain side effects that you will experience. Being pregnant comes with its stress and combining it with breastfeeding only increases the physical and psychological strain.
While breastfeeding with pregnancy, here are a few things, you might notice:
- Fatigue
- Low milk production and supply
- Changes in taste and color of your breastmilk
- Morning sickness or nausea
- Sore nipples
- Contractions
- Feeling overwhelmed
If you notice that any of these side effects become more severe or prolonged, make efforts to speak to a health care specialist.
Tips for breastfeeding during pregnancy
In addition to the counsel that you will get from your medical healthcare specialist, knowing a few tricks that can come in handy doesn’t hurt, does it?
Here are simple tips that you might find helpful while breastfeeding with a pregnancy.
- Watch your diet
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, being conscious of what you eat is a vital decision that influences the nutrients your unborn child and baby depend on. Hence, you should focus more on eating fresh whole meals.
Fruits and vegetables that are rich in fiber are also healthy choices that will boost your health and that of your kids. Ensure that you consume a sufficient amount of calories.
If your breastfeeding child is eating other foods or is under 6 months old, then you need a minimum of 650 calories in your meals. Not forgetting that you should have 350 calories extra if you are in your 2nd trimester or 450 extra calories if you are in your 33rd trimester.
2. Be consistent with health care checkups
With pregnancies, it is always recommended that you communicate with your doctor as often as possible. Occurrences such as contractions should be reported especially when there is a history of miscarriages, high-risk pregnancy, uterine pain, and bleeding or if you are carrying twins and have been advised to avoid sex during pregnancy.
3. Take care of your nipples and watch your breast milk supply
As a breastfeeding mother, you are bound to have sore nipples or breast tendencies. Hence investing in self-care improves the state of your mental and physical fitness and also sponsors a more convenient transition through a phase like this.
Being conscious of subtle changes in your milk quality and supply is also vital. A decrease in your milk supply means that you might need to incorporate other forms of baby nutrition into your baby’s meals.
The phase of dealing with being a pregnant and breastfeeding mom can be quite a challenge and you will need as much guidance as possible. Hence, prioritize having easy access to a health care center that can provide for your medical needs.
