You might have started getting used to breastfeeding your baby, but wait a minute… you’re pregnant again! You’ll probably be wondering about quite a few things. Is it safe to breastfeed while I’m pregnant? How will this affect my foetus? How will this affect my weaning baby? Can I breastfeed two children at once?
Don’t worry, all of these questions and feelings are understandable. The decision to breastfeed while you’re pregnant is up to you, but having a good understanding of its risks and benefits, and the steps to take while doing such will only help you and everyone out!
So, is it safe?
Breastfeeding can cause mild uterine contractions, which is a worry for pregnant mums who are breastfeeding. But these contractions aren’t a concern in a healthy pregnancy, as they generally don’t cause preterm labour.
Oxytocin, the hormone released during breastfeeding which stimulates contractions, is usually released in such minute amounts during breastfeeding that it’s not enough to cause preterm labour. However, if you’re at risk for early labour, your doctor might suggest to either lessen the number of feedings or start weaning in order to reduce stimulating your breasts.
Those contractions are also harmless to the foetus and very rarely increases the chances of having a miscarriage. Although a small amount of pregnancy hormones pass into your breastmilk, these hormones aren’t a risk for your breastfeeding baby.
Breastfeeding while you’re pregnant is generally safe, but always consult your doctor to see if you’re at risk for preterm labour.
Challenges You’ll Face
One of the more common things you’ll face while pregnant is sore nipples – and it’ll be pretty difficult and painful for you to breastfeed with them! It’s easier said than done, but focus your attention on other things instead of the discomfort and you might find it easier. Another challenge that you’ll face is the nausea that’s caused by the let-down of milk.
Eating enough to support breastfeeding, as well as your unborn child is also another challenge. It is essential that you eat well for the health of your nursing child and your unborn child!
Your calorie intake will depend on how old your nursling is. You will need around 500 supplemental calories per day if your child is eating other foods besides breast milk or 650 more calories if he is less than six months old.
This is in addition to the 350 extra calories you need during the second trimester and the 450 extra calories you need during the third trimester. If you are in your first trimester and find it difficult to eat due to nausea, you will be relieved that no additional calories are required during the first trimester.
Pregnancy To Parenthood Seminar Series
If you wish to know more about your journey through pregnancy, as well as detailed explanations of what to expect during labour and delivery, this seminar is for you!
Date: Saturday, 7 July, 2018
Registration: 1:30 pm
Time: 2:00 pm - 6:00pm
Venue: Singapore Expo Max Atria
Room: Peridot 201-203
Find out more about this helpful seminar for mums- and dads-to-be right here! https://www.mummysmarket.com.sg/deal/pregnancy-parenthood-seminar-series-know-it-all-pregnancy-delivery-breastfeeding
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