Getting Pregnant While Nursing: What You Need to Know

Breastfeeding is a rewarding experience, but it can also raise questions about fertility. Whether you’re hoping to conceive another child or avoid pregnancy while nursing, understanding the relationship between breastfeeding and ovulation is key. Let’s take a closer look at some essential tips from the experts, potential challenges, and solutions to help you navigate your next steps.

What Are the Odds of Getting Pregnant While Breastfeeding?

The chances of getting pregnant while nursing vary based on your baby’s age, feeding frequency, and your menstrual cycle. The Lactation Amenorrhea Method (LAM) is a natural form of contraception that relies on exclusive breastfeeding to suppress ovulation. When practiced correctly during the first six months postpartum, LAM is up to 98% effective, according to Harvard Health.

However, once your baby starts eating solids, uses a pacifier, or you reduce nursing sessions, the likelihood of ovulation increases. While some women ovulate before their first postpartum period, others menstruate without ovulating initially. If you’re not ready to conceive again, La Leche League International recommends combining LAM with other contraceptive methods, such as condoms, can provide additional protection.

What Happens If You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding?

Pregnancy while nursing is generally safe for both you and your baby, but it can come with challenges, including:

• Increased Nutritional Demands: Supporting a pregnancy and breastfeeding simultaneously requires additional calories. Aim for 500–650 extra calories daily if your baby is exclusively breastfeeding and an additional 350–450 calories during the second and third trimesters.
• Nipple Sensitivity: Hormonal changes may make breastfeeding uncomfortable.
• Changes in Milk Supply and Taste: Hormonal shifts often reduce milk production or alter its flavor, leading some babies to wean themselves.
• Uterine Contractions: Oxytocin released during nursing may trigger mild contractions. While these are typically harmless, consult your healthcare provider if you have a history of preterm labor or miscarriage.

Some parents continue breastfeeding throughout pregnancy and go on to tandem nurse both their newborn and older child. In these cases, La Leche League International recommends prioritizing the newborn’s feeding needs.

Tips for Getting Pregnant While Nursing

If you’re ready to conceive while breastfeeding, here are some strategies to boost your chances:

1. Gradually Reduce Nursing Frequency: Cutting back on nursing sessions can help signal your body to resume ovulation. Eliminating a single feeding session may have a significant impact.
2. Monitor Your Fertility: Track changes in cervical mucus or use ovulation predictor kits to identify your fertile window.
3. Get Adequate Nutrition: Ensure your body is well-nourished, as low caloric intake can delay the return of ovulation.
4. Be Patient: Many breastfeeding parents ovulate between 9 and 18 months postpartum, but the timeline varies.

By gradually reintroducing ovulation-friendly behaviors, you can increase your chances of conceiving while nursing.

Signs of Returning Fertility While Breastfeeding: What to Look For

Fertility can return unpredictably while breastfeeding. Watch for these signs of ovulation:

• Changes in cervical mucus, becoming clear and stretchy.
• Cramping or mild pelvic pain.
• An increase in basal body temperature.
• Spotting or the return of your menstrual cycle.

Keep in mind that ovulation can occur before your first postpartum period, making pregnancy possible even without menstruation.

What Are the Side Effects of Getting Pregnant While Breastfeeding?

Pregnancy while nursing may come with these side effects:

• Fatigue: Increased energy demands may leave you feeling more tired.
• Sore Nipples: Hormonal changes can make breastfeeding uncomfortable.
• Cramping: Oxytocin release during nursing may cause mild uterine contractions.

Most of these symptoms are manageable, but consult your healthcare provider if you experience severe discomfort or have concerns about preterm labor.

Pros and Cons of Getting Pregnant While Nursing

Weighing the advantages and disadvantages of getting pregnant while breastfeeding can help you decide what’s best for your family:

Pros:

• May allow you to maintain a close bond with your older child.
• Supports a natural transition if your child self-weans.
• Keeps your parenting timeline condensed.

Cons:

• Increased physical and nutritional demands.
• Potential discomfort from nipple sensitivity.
• Possible challenges with milk supply and baby’s acceptance of milk changes.

How Can I Avoid Getting Pregnant While Breastfeeding?

If you’re not ready to expand your family, here’s how to minimize the chance of conception:

• Follow LAM Guidelines: Exclusively breastfeed on demand, at least every four hours during the day and six hours at night.
• Use Barrier Methods: Condoms and diaphragms provide effective contraception without affecting milk supply.
• Consider Non-Hormonal IUDs: These options are safe for breastfeeding parents and highly effective.

Discuss your contraceptive options with your healthcare provider to choose the best method for your needs.

Embracing the Journey: Balancing Nursing and Your Family’s Future

Breastfeeding is a beautiful chapter in your parenting story, and understanding its connection to fertility can help you plan for the next steps in your family’s journey. Whether you’re preparing for another pregnancy or focusing on nurturing the baby in your arms, knowledge is your best ally – and ANB Baby is here to help! Shop our store in person or online for products that support every stage of parenthood, from breastfeeding essentials to pregnancy care items and beyond!