Throughout my seven years as a lactation consultant and volunteer counselor for breastfeeding mothers, I’ve observed a bewildering array of messages surrounding the topic of breastfeeding during pregnancy. Some healthcare professionals assert outright that nursing while pregnant is completely unsafe under any circumstances. Others offer more nuanced advice, suggesting that weaning should occur as soon as possible. Meanwhile, some parents receive reassurance that breastfeeding during pregnancy poses no risks whatsoever. This inconsistency can understandably lead to confusion.
Ultimately, the choice to continue breastfeeding during pregnancy is deeply personal. For some mothers, discovering they’re pregnant while still nursing may trigger a decision to wean. The hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can make breastfeeding uncomfortable, particularly for those experiencing severe nausea or fatigue. Additionally, many toddlers and infants may become more irritable at the breast, and some mothers may notice a decrease in milk supply due to pregnancy hormones. If a mother chooses to end her nursing journey, she is under no obligation to explain her decision to anyone.
Conversely, many mothers choose to maintain their nursing relationship while pregnant. They may feel that continuing to breastfeed is beneficial for both themselves and their child, and they appreciate the opportunity to rest and bond with their little one during this time. Importantly, the nutritional value of breast milk remains intact throughout pregnancy, even if the quantity may diminish.
Mothers naturally want to ensure the safety of their pregnancy and unborn child; however, navigating conflicting information from health professionals, family, and friends can be challenging. As a support person for breastfeeding mothers, I am not qualified to provide medical advice, but I can direct them to evidence-based resources that offer current information on breastfeeding issues. Notably, a significant body of research indicates that breastfeeding is rarely contraindicated for healthy pregnant women.
For instance, the position paper from the Academy of American Family Physicians (AAFP) clearly states that for healthy mothers, there is no reason to wean during pregnancy. They emphasize that the choice to continue breastfeeding is a personal one and highlight that extended breastfeeding can provide health benefits for toddlers—specifically, that children under two years old may face increased health risks if weaned.
Similarly, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released statements affirming the safety of breastfeeding during pregnancy, noting that mothers with a history of miscarriage or preterm labor should consult their healthcare providers if they experience unusual uterine contractions. The concern among health professionals arises from the fact that nipple stimulation can trigger contractions. Therefore, the critical question is whether any evidence exists to suggest that breastfeeding during pregnancy heightens the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor.
A recent summary of research from La Leche League International found no substantial evidence linking breastfeeding during pregnancy to an increased risk of these complications. For example, a 2012 study published in the Journal of Nursing Research investigated the likelihood of preterm labor in women who breastfed during pregnancy versus those who did not. The findings revealed no significant differences in premature births or healthy birth weights between the two groups.
Additionally, a 2009 study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research examined miscarriage rates among women who breastfed during pregnancy compared to those who did not. The results indicated that 7.3% of breastfeeding mothers experienced miscarriages, while 8.4% of non-breastfeeding mothers did. The researchers concluded that there were no statistically significant differences, suggesting that breastfeeding during pregnancy does not elevate miscarriage risk.
La Leche League’s article references various studies and expert opinions, all of which consistently support the notion that breastfeeding during pregnancy is safe.
For mothers who continue to encounter conflicting advice despite their research, my guidance is to trust their instincts. If continuing to breastfeed during pregnancy aligns with their desires, it may be time to seek out a healthcare professional who endorses their choice. Building a supportive network of friends—and perhaps asking naysayers to kindly refrain from their opinions—can also be beneficial. Ultimately, this is your body, your pregnancy, and your family. Gather reliable information, seek support, and determine what works best for you. If breastfeeding during pregnancy is your path, embrace it wholeheartedly—you are an incredible multitasking mother!
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Summary:
Breastfeeding during pregnancy is a personal decision that can often be confused by mixed messages from healthcare professionals. Research supports that for healthy mothers, breastfeeding during pregnancy is generally safe, with no significant evidence linking it to increased risks of miscarriage or preterm labor. Mothers are encouraged to trust their instincts and seek supportive resources as they navigate this journey.
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