In my seven years of supporting breastfeeding mothers as a volunteer counselor and lactation consultant, I’ve been struck by the conflicting messages surrounding breastfeeding while pregnant. Some mothers receive stern warnings from their doctors that breastfeeding during pregnancy is entirely unsafe, while others are merely advised to wean as soon as possible. Meanwhile, some are reassured that it’s completely safe and shouldn’t worry about it at all. Talk about confusing!
Deciding to continue breastfeeding while pregnant is a deeply personal choice. If a mother becomes pregnant while still nursing, she might feel it’s time to stop. Pregnancy hormones can make nursing uncomfortable, particularly if they are dealing with severe nausea or fatigue. Additionally, some babies and toddlers may become fussier at the breast, and some mothers might notice a decrease in milk supply due to hormonal changes. If a mother feels the need to end her breastfeeding relationship, she doesn’t owe anyone an explanation.
However, many mothers choose to persist with breastfeeding during pregnancy. They may not be ready to wean, and the arrangement continues to work for both mother and child. Moreover, nursing can provide a much-needed break for the mother, offering a chance to relax on the couch with her little one. Importantly, breast milk retains its nutritional value during pregnancy, even if the quantity may diminish.
All mothers want what is best for their babies and would never want to compromise their health or safety. So how should a mother navigate the mixed messages from healthcare professionals, friends, family, and other breastfeeding mothers? As someone who supports breastfeeding mothers, I provide evidence-based resources to help them make informed decisions.
There is a wealth of research indicating that breastfeeding is generally safe for healthy pregnant women. According to a position paper from the Academy of American Family Physicians (AAFP), there is no reason for healthy mothers to wean during pregnancy. They assert, “If the pregnancy is normal and the mother is healthy, breastfeeding during pregnancy is the woman’s personal decision.” They emphasize the health benefits for toddlers who continue to breastfeed, stating that weaning can increase the risk of illness for children under two.
Similarly, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has made a statement endorsing the safety of breastfeeding during pregnancy, while advising mothers with histories of miscarriage or premature birth to consult their doctors if they experience unusual uterine contractions. The concern from healthcare professionals stems from the knowledge that nipple stimulation can trigger contractions, often referenced in labor induction techniques.
The critical question is whether there is any evidence that breastfeeding during pregnancy increases the likelihood of miscarriage or preterm labor. La Leche League International recently reviewed the research and found no conclusive evidence to support this concern.
For instance, a 2012 study published in the Journal of Nursing Research compared two groups of women: those who breastfed for 30 days or more during pregnancy and those who did not. The findings showed no significant differences in preterm birth rates or healthy birth weights between the two groups. Additionally, a 2009 study in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research examined the risk of miscarriage among women who breastfed during pregnancy. They found that 7.3% of breastfeeding mothers experienced miscarriages, compared to 8.4% of non-breastfeeding mothers, concluding that there is no statistically significant difference.
All evidence points to the conclusion that breastfeeding during pregnancy is safe. So, what should a mother do if she continues to hear conflicting information? My advice is consistent: trust your instincts. If breastfeeding during pregnancy is important to you, seek out healthcare professionals who support your decision. You may also want to surround yourself with more encouraging friends or simply inform the naysayers to mind their own business.
Ultimately, this is your body, your pregnancy, and your children. Gather the right information, find a supportive community, and decide what works best for you. If breastfeeding during pregnancy is what you choose, go for it, you amazing multitasking mama!
For more insights on home insemination and related topics, check out our articles on at-home kits and the emotional ups and downs of parenting at Make a Mom and Intracervical Insemination. For comprehensive information on pregnancy and insemination, visit WebMD.
Summary
Breastfeeding during pregnancy is a personal decision, and research indicates that for healthy mothers, it is generally safe. While some healthcare professionals caution against it, significant studies show no increased risk of miscarriage or preterm labor associated with breastfeeding. Ultimately, mothers should trust their instincts and seek supportive resources as they navigate their breastfeeding journey during pregnancy.