Lots of mothers breastfeed successfully during pregnancy. But you may notice some changes. These are normal.
Ask our breastfeeding experts
Breast milk supply
If you are breastfeeding when you become pregnant, you will notice a drop in your milk supply. This is because hormones during pregnancy cause a decrease in milk production. Your milk supply won’t dry up completely. But you will notice it drop, particularly during the fourth and fifth month of pregnancy.
Nipple pain
Nipple pain a common side effect of the hormonal changes of pregnancy. This may mean that you have to breastfeed less often and shorten feeding times.
Weaning
Some breastfeeding babies and toddlers respond to a drop in milk supply by breastfeeding less. They may want to start weaning. Weaning is starting your baby on solid foods. This depends on their own readiness to wean. It also depends on your own feelings about feeding through pregnancy.
As your milk changes
Your breast milk’s taste can change a bit later in the pregnancy. Your milk will also turn into colostrum. Older babies may notice a change in the taste. They may wean at that point, but they also may want to try feeding again once the new baby arrives. Pregnancy hormones in breast milk are completely safe for your breastfeeding child.
Taking care of yourself
It will be important to make sure you take good care of yourself. Eat well and rest whenever you can. This isn’t always easy when you have a young child, so ask for help from friends and family.
Get support
Attending a breastfeeding support group can be an enjoyable way to talk with like-minded mothers. Some may be able to give advice about breastfeeding through pregnancy. Find out what happens at a breastfeeding support group.