Breastfeeding While Pregnant: What You Need to Know

Are you pregnant and still breastfeeding? You might be wondering if it’s safe to keep going. I want to let you know it’s totally possible to keep breastfeeding your older child while you’re pregnant! Lots of mums worry they have to stop once they get a positive pregnancy test (or a misinformed health professional has given them this incorrect info) but the good news is that, in most cases, it’s perfectly safe. In this post, we’ll talk about what breastfeeding while pregnant looks like, how it can affect you and your baby, and I’ll share some helpful tips!

Is It Safe to Breastfeed While Pregnant?

Let’s start by answering the big question: yes, breastfeeding while pregnant is usually safe. Your body is amazing and can nourish both your growing baby and your older child at the same time. There are a few exceptions, but if your pregnancy is healthy and you haven’t had any problems like miscarriage in the first 20 weeks or preterm labour after 20 weeks, most mums can keep breastfeeding without any issues.

Why Continue Breastfeeding While Pregnant?

Why should you keep breastfeeding while pregnant? If your older child isn’t ready to stop or you want to keep that special bond, there’s no need to force them to stop. Continuing to breastfeed can give so much comfort and nutrition to your older child and help them adjust when the new baby arrives. Lots of mums find that breastfeeding helps them stay close to their child during pregnancy, even when a lot of focus is on the new baby.

What About My Milk Supply?

You might notice that your milk supply drops when you’re breastfeeding while pregnant. This happens to many mums, especially in the second trimester. Your pregnancy hormones interrupt your breastfeeding hormones, so most mums find their supply drops a little or even a lot. Some babies might start breastfeeding less or eat more solid foods. But if your older child is less than 12 months and still relies a lot on your milk, you should keep an eye on their weight to make sure they’re getting enough to grow and develop. Check out this blog post to find out if they’re still getting enough milk.

How Does Breastfeeding Affect My Pregnancy?

You might worry that your breastfeeding little one will be taking important nutrients away from your belly baby. This is not true at all. Your body will make sure your unborn baby gets everything they need. But breastfeeding can cause mild contractions, so it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor if you’re at risk for preterm labour.

How Will I Feel While Breastfeeding and Pregnant?

Breastfeeding while pregnant can feel different. You might notice more nipple sensitivity or pain, feel extra tired, or even feel a little sick while breastfeeding. This is normal because your body is working hard to support both of your babies. Some mums also feel more emotional or get irritated while breastfeeding. I felt like my skin was crawling and it was a really uncomfortable sensation. If this happens, remind yourself that you’re doing an amazing job handling both your pregnancy and breastfeeding (and you’re not a terrible mum!). And remember, these sensations don’t always stay for the whole pregnancy! Sometimes they come and go or disappear completely. I worried that the skin crawling sensation would still be there when my new baby was born, but like most mums, all the sensations of breastfeeding through pregnancy disappeared completely once my baby was born.

When Should I Stop Breastfeeding While Pregnant?

Sometimes, you might need to stop breastfeeding during pregnancy, like if you’re at risk for preterm labour. But most of the time, if you and your child are happy, there’s no need to stop breastfeeding right away. Some mums do feel that breastfeeding doesn’t feel as happy for them anymore and decide to stop, and that’s ok! Listen to your body and your baby and trust yourself to make the right choice. If you do decide to stop, you might find this info on weaning helpful.

You might also be wondering how long you can keep breastfeeding while pregnant. The answer? As long as it feels right for you and your child. Some mums continue breastfeeding through pregnancy and even after the new baby arrives, which is called tandem nursing (breastfeeding two or more children at the same time).

Tips for Breastfeeding While Pregnant 

1. Stay hydrated and nourished

Your body is working hard to grow a baby and produce milk, so make sure you’re eating enough food and drinking plenty of water.

2. Find comfortable breastfeeding positions

As your belly grows, you might need to adjust your breastfeeding positions to stay comfortable. Side-lying or laid-back positions can help.

3. Manage nipple sensitivity

Make sure baby is opening their mouth nice and wide to avoid sore nipples from a latch that’s not quite right. If bub is 12 months or older, you can limit breastfeeding sessions or make sessions shorter if nipple pain becomes too uncomfortable.

4. See a Lactation Consultant

If you have concerns or questions about breastfeeding while pregnant, a lactation consultant can give you personalized advice and support. You can book a home visit or video call with me here. 

Breastfeeding While Pregnant: Safe, Possible, and Fulfilling

Breastfeeding while pregnant is totally possible and safe for most mums. You might notice some changes, like less milk or more nipple pain, but it can still be a special way to care for your older child while getting ready for your new baby.

If you have any questions or want to share your experience, send me a message on Instagram—I’d love to hear what you learned from this post!