Breastfeeding during Pregnancy

Abstract

Questionnaire data were gathered on the experiences of 57 women who were concurrently pregnant and breastfeeding. Respondents provided information on nursing and weaning patterns, informational and emotional support, and pregnancy history. The main reasons given for continued breastfeeding after conception were the emotional needs of the child or child-led weaning. Forty-three percent of the children continued to breastfeed throughout the pregnancy and tandem nurse after the birth. Mothers who initiated weaning cited breast and/or nipple pain as the principal reason. Most weanings initiated by the children occurred during the second trimester, corresponding with the diminution of breastmilk. The infants born to these mothers were healthy and appropriate for gestational age.