“Breastfeeding during a subsequent pregnancy is not unusual. If the pregnancy is normal and the mother is healthy, breastfeeding during pregnancy is the woman’s personal decision. If the child is younger than two years, the child is at increased risk of illness if weaned.” (References: AAFP, 2001, 2014 COD.)
Breastfeeding through a pregnancy can be emotionally and physically challenging for some mothers while others seem to have no problems. During pregnancy the baby may wean due to changes in flavor and volume of the breastmilk however the main reasons cited for weaning are breast and nipple pain. If it seems challenging the mother should seek help from a Lactation Consultant.
Provider Resources
- Optimizing Support for Breastfeeding as Part of Obstetric Practice
- The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) Position Paper on Breastfeeding
Patient Resources
- Texas WIC Printable Handout: Breastfeeding Tips for 6 Months and Beyond (English PDF)
- Texas WIC Printable Handout: Breastfeeding Tips for 6 Months and Beyond (Spanish PDF)
- Texas WIC Printable Handout: Breastfeeding Tips for 6 Months and Beyond (Vietnamese PDF)
- Breastfeeding During Pregnancy, LLLI
- Breastfeeding Beyond 6 Months (web lesson)
