The Crib: A Blog for New Parents

Continuing to breast feed, when you find yourself pregnant again.

Medical research once told us that it was not healthy for the baby growing within our body, to continue to breastfeed the growing baby already born.

That proved to be mistaken information. Studies today show that as long as the mother is taking in enough nutrients for her own and the fetus’s health, and drinking enough fluids, then she can and should continue breastfeeding as long as she is able, and willing.

Weaning the older child from breast milk before the birth of the new baby is probably going to make life easier for the mom. Life is probably already pretty exhausting, caring for an infant, the rest of your family, and being pregnant, all take a great toll on the body’s ability to maintain its health.

Scientists have found that after childbirth, a woman’s body naturally changes the nutrients in the breast milk to provide the best health benefits for a newborn. But until the new baby arrives, it is perfectly healthy and safe for all three of you to continue with the breastfeeding.

There is also a question as to whether breastfeeding may cause contractions, but so far a majority of studies have shown that there is no significant cause for concern unless you have a history of miscarriage. If you do start feeling anything remotely like a contraction, during breast feeding, then contact your doctor as soon as possible.

By 12 months, your older child is most likely going to be getting all the proper nutrients he or she needs from regular food, and milk and juice. However, breastfeeding is about more than just nutrients, so the choice is really your own. Talk with your OBGYN, and your pediatrician, about any special concerns that may arise.