Lots of mothers breastfeed throughout a subsequent pregnancy, and continue to breastfeed both the older child and the new baby for sometimes quite extended periods. Your SIL and her daughter are probably likely to notice a decrease in her milk supply as her pregnancy continues. Her mature milk will gradually change back to colostrum, perfect for her new baby. Some toddlers will wean, either temporarily or permanently, during this process. Her new baby's needs will always come first in the equation. As with any normal lactation, she will notice the colostrum change back to mature milk from around day 3 onwards.
Many mothers who tandem feed a baby and an older child never notice common problems of early lactation such as engorged breasts, blocked ducts and mastitis. Their older, enthusiastic, experienced feeder resolves all those issues for them! It certainly can be a juggle, from finding comfortable positions to feed a toddler when your lap is becoming non-existant, to feeling like you are feeding first one child then the other almost all day and night. However, a toddler who is still having her breastfeeds as usual will perhaps not feel so put out by the arrival of a new baby in the house. And breastmilk is ALWAYS good nutrition, regardless of the age of the baby/toddler/preschooler who is still feeding. I found it interesting that you felt "shagged" from feeding all day. In my experience, it was always the mothering that made me feel shagged, rather than the breastfeeding. The breastfeeds were compulsory sit down and rest times for me at regular intervals every day. And all that lovely oxytocin making my shoulders drop and my eyelids half close; the world keeps rushing by but the breastfeeding mother and her baby sit still in a little island of peace. Mmmmm... I feel relaxed just remembering it!! It was a haven in a busy day with my 3 under 2 and a half. Perhaps your SIL could get in touch with the Australian Breastfeeding Association, and have a read of the booklet Breastfeeding Through Pregnancy and Beyond. I'm sure she'd find it interesting and useful. Also, Your Toddler and the New Baby and Looking After Yourself might give her some good hints and ideas, too. Good luck, and happy mothering, Brenda Kittelty ----- Original Message ----- From: Timothy Haughan To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, August 03, 2002 12:07 AM Subject: [ozmidwifery] breastfeeding whilst pregnant? Dear List, My name is Rochelle, I am a newcomer to this fabulous forum. I was wondering what advice anyone might have in relation to breastfeeding whilst pregnant with the next bubba. My sister in law and myself are both brestfeeding our 16 month old girls, however my sister in law is 16 weeks pregnant with their second baby. I know some days I feel completely shagged from feeding so I can't imagine how I would be feeding plus growing a new bubba. My sister in law is dedicated to feeding the first, possibly until after the new baby arrives. We have discussed a number of issues around tandem feeding. We were wondering what health implications feeding through pregnancy may have for her, the 16 month old or the growing baby, what could/should she be doing to ensure optimum health for all. The eldest is eating a very balanced solid foods diet and can go lengthy periods without feeds, they are currently trying to eliminate (without weaning completely) feeding off to sleep at night and any night feeds to make it a bit easier on mum. I have suggested she up her water in take, ensure a very healthy balanced diet rich in protein, carbohydrates and good fats, exercise, keep an eye on her iron levels and take a pregnancy/breastfeeding vitamin supplement. Also, can anyone tell us what will happen to the milk supply after the baby is born? Will colostrum be supplied for the new babe? and then will her milk come in as it would if she hadn't been feeding? Is the eldest likely to refuse the colostrum? Any advice in relation to any part of the above will be greatly appreciated. Thank You. Rochelle (Adelaide) -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.
