According to medical experts, it is quite safe for moms to continue breastfeeding while pregnant. However, it is important for women to be conscious about their diet and lifestyle when they want to continue breastfeeding during pregnancy. There is an essential caveat, though, since those who are pregnant while breastfeeding may experience uterine contractions. While these contractions may not be a major concern in an uncomplicated pregnancy, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding to prevent uterine pain or discomfort.
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Getting Pregnant While Breastfeeding
Your comfort is one of your primary concerns whilte breastfeeding during pregnancy. For instance, you may experience breast soreness and nipple tenderness, and breastfeeding will intensify the pain. It is essential that you understand the signs of breastfeeding while pregnant, so you can avoid severe pains or discomfort. The following are among the different signs that pregnant moms encounter when breastfeeding their baby:
1. Tender and Painful Breasts
One of the initial signs of pregnancy is breast pain, as well as tenderness of the nipples. These symptoms may worsen among moms who breastfeed while pregnant, and the nipples may become very sore and irritated. When these symptoms occur, you may consider applying natural treatments or creams for sore nipples. For instance, you may use a nipple shield or put Lansinoh cream to your breasts after each feeding session. Some women, though, may have to wean their child from breastfeeding to relieve the pain and soreness completely.
2. Decreased Production of Milk
Women also experience a decrease in milk production while being pregnant. Moreover, the taste and amount of breast milk changes as the pregnancy progresses. This condition will cause the baby to be hungry frequently, which would cause him or her to need additional feedings. There are also instances when the altered taste and insufficient milk supply will cause the babies to wean themselves from breastfeeding. Moms may consider feeding their babies with fruits, vegetables and other nutritious foods that will help nourish them.
3. Increased Fatigue and Exhaustion
Fatigue is another sign of being pregnant among moms who are breastfeeding their babies. Breastfeeding tends to add more stress on your body, so you may feel more sleepy or tired than usual. In addition, the increase in hormones will cause additional fatigue. When this happens, nursing moms should try to take naps frequently during the day. Another great way to fight off stress and fatigue is by increasing the protein intake. Mild exercise, plenty of fluids, and sleep will also alleviate fatigue associated with pregnancy.
4. Overall Feeling of Weakness
When all these symptoms pile up, you may feel weak and lethargic. The discomfort worsens when you breastfeed your baby. Pregnant-related weakness can also pose challenges to moms such as mood changes, irritability, and depression. You will need emotional support from loved ones, which can help you sustain your energy during this stage. In addition, you should consult your doctor when you think taking prenatal vitamins and supplements can help you get back on track.
Can I Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding?
You may wonder how can you get pregnant while breastfeeding, since there are women who use this practice as a way to prevent becoming pregnant. In fact, many women use breastfeeding as one way of natural contraception until they are ready to wean their babies. While this practice may be successful for a few, there are instances when pregnancy still occurs among breastfeeding moms. There are women who experiences normal menstruation earlier than they expect, and it happens when they do not breastfeed their babies often. Since you can never be sure when the menstrual cycle will resume, it may be ideal to use another method of contraception that will prevent you from getting pregnant. Your fluctuating hormones, including several other factors, make breastfeeding an unreliable contraception method.
What to Consider When Breastfeeding While Pregnant
Even when you are breastfeeding, you are still likely to experience the typical symptoms of being pregnant. These symptoms include weight gain, absence of the menstrual period, fatigue, nausea, and cramps. If you experience these signs and you think you are pregnant, then you should consult your doctor. Nipple stimulation may cause uterine contractions, and you may have to start weaning your child to prevent complications during your pregnant stages.
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