Breastfeeding during pregnancy – Exploration of security and considerations around breastfeeding during pregnancy. Essential information for future moms.

With regard to pregnancy and breastfeeding, many women wonder if it is safe to continue breastfeeding during pregnancy. This double responsibility to provide nutrients and care for both the older and developing fetus can raise questions and concerns. Although the research available on this subject is limited, it is essential to weigh the possible benefits and risks for both the mother and her children.

1. What happens to breast milk during pregnancy?

During pregnancy there are hormonal changes that can affect the production and composition of breast milk. A study suggests that the taste and nutritional content of breast milk can change during pregnancy as the level of hormones fluctuates, such as estrogens and progesterone. Some women may notice a decrease in milk production and changes in the taste that can influence the experience of breastfeeding both for the mother and the older child. It is important to keep in mind that these changes may not occur in all women and can vary from one person to another.

• Decreased milk production: As pregnancy progresses, the amount of milk produced can decrease due to the hormonal changes that occur in the body. This decrease in milk production can reduce the satisfaction of the older child, which may need additional nutrition to cover their food needs.
• Changes in flavor: The taste of breast milk can be influenced by changes in hormonal levels, giving rise to a different flavor that may not be easily accepted by the older child. Some young children can continue sucking without problems, while others may need time to adapt to the new flavor.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Consult a healthcare professional to determine whether to continue breastfeeding during pregnancy is suitable for your specific situation.

Benefits of breastfeeding during pregnancy

1. Provides additional nutrition to the growth fetus: breast milk is an excellent source of nutrition for infants, and continuing breastfeeding during pregnancy can ensure that both the baby in the uterus and the infant child receive the necessary nutrients. The nutritional content of breast milk adapts to the specific needs of each child, and the calosro produced at the beginning of pregnancy is especially rich in antibodies and immune reinforcement properties.

“Breastfeeding during pregnancy can ensure that both the baby in the womb and the infant child receive the necessary nutrients.”

2. It encourages affective bond and emotional wel l-being: breastfeeding is not just nutrition; He also plays a crucial role in promoting a strong emotional bond between mother and son. Continue breastfeeding during pregnancy allows the infant child to maintain this intimate bond, providing a sense of security and emotional wel l-being during the transition to become an older brother.

1. Breastfeeding during pregnancy facilitates the development of a support and affection relationship between brothers.
2. Emotional benefits for both the mother and the child include an increase in feelings of love, parenting and attachment.

3. It can facilitate the transition to breastfeeding in tandem: breastfeeding in tandem, which consists of simultaneously breastfeeding a baby and an older child, can be a difficult but rewarding experience. Breastfeeding during pregnancy can help prepare the infant child for the arrival of his new brother and lay the foundations for a satisfactory transition to breastfeeding in tandem after birth.

Additional Nutritional Benefits for the Growing Baby

1. Increased antibody production: It is known that breast milk is rich in antibodies that help protect babies from various infections and diseases. When a mother breastfeeds during pregnancy, her body begins to produce more antibodies in response to the needs of the baby she is breastfeeding and those of the developing fetus. This increase in antibody production can provide growth with an additional immune reinforcement.

“Breast milk is considered a living fluid, full of immunological factors that can improve the immune system of the newborn.”

• 2. Improves brain development: breast milk contains essential fatty acids, such as docosahexaenic acid (DHA), which are crucial for brain development and the baby’s central nervous system. When an infant mother is pregnant, her body has a greater demand for these fatty acids to support the growth of both infant baby and the developing fetus. As a result, breast milk produced during pregnancy can provide a higher level of these vital nutrients to support the optimal development of the brain of growing baby.
• 3. Balanced nutrient composition: Breast milk is a dynamic fluid that adjusts its composition to meet the changing needs of the baby. When a mother breastfeeds during pregnancy, her body adapts to meet the nutritional needs of both the nursing baby and the growing fetus. This means that breast milk produced during pregnancy may have a slightly different nutrient profile than breast milk produced when you are not pregnant, which can provide your growing baby with a balanced set of essential nutrients.

Promotion of Bonding and Emotional Connection

When a father breastfeeds his child, a unique and deep connection is created. Physical proximity and skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding release oxytocin, a hormone that increases feelings of love, trust, and emotional attachment (citation needed). This hormone not only helps parents relax and bond with their child, but also promotes the baby’s overall well-being (citation needed). The act of breastfeeding creates a special bond that goes beyond the physical aspects of feeding and lays the foundation for a strong emotional connection (citation needed) .

“Breastfeeding facilitates the release of oxytocin, which improves mother-infant bonding and promotes feelings of emotional connection.”-Fountain

• Breastfeeding offers parents a unique opportunity to interact with their child, encouraging eye contact, touch and communication from an early age.
• The act of breastfeeding requires parents to be present and attentive, creating a sense of security and receptivity that fosters trust between parents and children.
• Research indicates that breastfeeding can positively influence a baby’s emotional regulation skills, contributing to better emotional well-being later in life (citation needed).

1. The release of oxytocin during breastfeeding not only promotes bonding, but also helps the uterus contract, reducing postpartum hemorrhage and contributing to the mother’s recovery (citation needed).
2. The psychological benefits of breastfeeding, such as increased maternal confidence and satisfaction, can further enhance the emotional connection between parents and children (citation needed).
3. Prolonged breastfeeding has been associated with improved maternal mental health, as the act of breastfeeding fosters a sense of emotional fulfillment and reduces the risk of postpartum depression (citation needed).

Continued Support for Sibling Relationships

Support for brothers relationships during childhood

• Promote a sense of justice and equality among the brothers.
• Promote and facilitate shared activities and experiences.
• Teach conflict resolution techniques and guide dispute resolution.
• Provide opportunities for brothers to work together and collaborate.
• Regularly express your appreciation and celebrate the strengths of each brother.

“Brothers relationships can influence and mold social skills, sel f-esteem and the ability to relate a person. Investing in these relationships can have durable positive effects on emotional wel l-being and the general vital satisfaction of the brothers.”- Dr. Jane Peterson, Children’s Psychologist

Support brothers relationships during adolescence

1. Respect intimacy and individual limits.
2. Promote open communication and active listening between brothers.
3. Provide a safe and without prejudice environment for the brothers to express themselves.
4. Encourage the brothers to support each other in their objectives and aspirations, even if they differ.
5. Facilitate opportunities for brothers to create memories and shared experiences.

Enhanced Immune System Development for the Newborn

1. Maternal antibodies: When a baby is breastfed, he receives a series of mother’s antibodies through breast milk. These antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, provide passive immunity to the newborn, helping to protect themselves from infections. The calcoster, the first milk that occurs after birth, is especially rich in antibodies and provides vital immune protection during the first days of life.

“Breast milk contains a wide range of immunological components, such as IGA, IGM, IgG and IGE secretors, who confer protection against bacterial, viral and parasitic infections.”

2. Transfer of immune cells: in addition to antibodies, breast milk also contains immune cells such as lymphocytes and macrophages. These cells play a crucial role in the immune response by identifying and destroying strange invaders. The transfer of immune cells through breastfeeding helps reinforce the immune system of the newborn and improve its ability to combat infections.

• During breastfeeding, immune cells cross the gastrointestinal tract of the infant and reach various parts of their body.
• This transfer of immune cells contributes to the development of the newborn immune system itself.

3. Intestinal microbiota: breast milk also plays a fundamental role in the formation of the intestinal microbiota of the newborn, which contributes even more to improve the development of the immune system. The intestine houses billions of bacteria that influence various aspects of health, including immune function. Breast milk provides prebiotics, probiotics and other beneficial components that help establish a healthy microbiota in the infant intestine.

1. The presence of beneficial bacteria in breast milk favors the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria in the infant.
2. A diverse and balanced intestinal microbiota is associated with a stronger immune system and a lower risk of disorders related to the immune system.

Continued Physical and Psychological Benefits for the Mother

From the physical point of view, breastfeeding during pregnancy can have important advantages for the mother. Research has shown that breastfeeding helps the uterus to contract, which can facilitate postpartum recovery and reduce the risk of excessive bleeding. In addition, the act of breastfeeding releases hormones, such as oxytocin, which can favor relaxation and stress reduction. This can be especially beneficial for infant mothers, who can experience high stress levels by juggling to attend to their newborn and balance the changes that occur during pregnancy.

According to a study by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Sisli Hamidiye Etfal of Istanbul (Turkey), breastfeeding during pregnancy can also make women overweight or obesity recover more quickly the weight they had beforepregnancy.

Psychologically, breastfeeding during pregnancy can provide emotional satisfaction to the mother. The bond that forms between a mother and her nursing child may deepen during this period as they navigate new emotional and physical dynamics. This can help the mother feel satisfied, empowered and fulfilled. Additionally, the release of hormones during breastfeeding can promote feelings of happiness and contentment, which can positively impact overall emotional well-being.

• The continued physical benefits of breastfeeding during pregnancy can aid postpartum recovery.
• Breastfeeding releases hormones that promote relaxation and stress reduction.
• Research suggests that breastfeeding during pregnancy can cause overweight or obese women to regain their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly.

1. Breastfeeding during pregnancy can strengthen the bond between mother and child.
2. The emotional satisfaction of breastfeeding during pregnancy can contribute to feelings of fulfillment and autonomy.
3. Hormonal release during breastfeeding can increase overall emotional well-being.

Preparation for Tandem Nursing

1. Establish a strong breastfeeding relationship Before attempting tandem breastfeeding, it is essential to establish a strong relationship with your older child. This includes making sure they are comfortable and adjust well to breastfeeding. Mothers should continue to provide the older child with plenty of attention, security, and affection throughout the transition.

Tip: It is recommended to start preparing your older child for tandem breastfeeding during pregnancy. This may include talking to them about the baby’s upcoming arrival and explaining that they will be able to continue breastfeeding.

2. Prepare for physical demands: Tandem breastfeeding can be physically demanding on the mother’s body. It is important for mothers to take care of themselves to ensure an adequate milk supply for both children. This may involve increasing your calorie intake, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. Consulting a healthcare professional or lactation consultant can provide valuable guidance in meeting these nutritional needs.

1. Hydration: Drink abundant liquids throughout the day, especially water, to maintain optimal hydration.
2. Nutrition: Consume a balanced diet that includes nutrien t-rich foods to favor milk production.
3. Rest: prioritizes rest and sleep to favor physical recovery and general wel l-being.

3. Find out about breastfeeding in tandem: breastfeeding in tandem can be a unique experience, and arm yourself with knowledge about benefits, challenges and techniques can help navigate this trip with confidence. Look for reliable resources such as books, articles and support groups specialized in breastfeeding in Tandem to obtain information and advice from other parents who have breastfeeding in tandem successfully.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont