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Expert Q&A

	By Ann Calandro BSN, RNC, IBCLC Lactation Consultant

Can I continue to breastfeed my first baby while I am pregnant with my second?

Yes, you can continue. Many women continue nursing. (I have been there and done this...) It is certainly an individual decision. You may experience some nipple tenderness in the early months of the pregnancy. There may be some emotional changes as well.

The decision may also depend on the age of the baby. If he is a young baby, he may not be of an age when he is ready to naturally wean, and may have a need to continue nursing.

There are many factors to consider: Will you find support from your husband and family either way? If you choose to continue, it is important to pay close attention to your nutritional state, to eat a lot of healthy, whole foods, in order to protect yourself and your newer baby. You may need to consume more calories, and take prenatal vitamins as well.

According to the La Leche League Breastfeeding Answer Book, there is no documented danger to mother or fetus when mothers breastfeed through a healthy pregnancy.

Remember that it is natural for your milk supply to decline as the second trimester begins. This is so the unborn baby will receive more nutrients. If you are counting on your milk to supply a lot of your baby's calories, you will probably find that you need to add extra foods to his diet at this point. Some babies self wean when the milk declines and also seems to undergo some flavor changes. All babies are individual on this.

You will probably want to ""play this by ear"" and decide on it day to day as you and your babies grow through this special time. Perhaps a visit to a local La Leche League meeting to talk to the Leader and other mothers about this would be helpful to you as you consider your options.

Ann M. Calandro, BSN, RNC, IBCLC"

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