What to do if you become pregnant while breastfeeding
Disease description:
My friend Xiaozhang is currently in her lactation period, and her baby is only seven months old. However, she recently discovered that she might be pregnant again. This has caused her significant anxiety, as she is unsure whether becoming pregnant while breastfeeding might affect both her existing baby and the new life developing within her. She also doesn't know how to balance breastfeeding and prenatal care. She wants to know how to properly manage a pregnancy that occurs during the lactation period.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Pregnancy during lactation does not directly harm the existing baby, but it may require adjustments to the baby's diet. If continuing the pregnancy is intended, it is advisable to closely monitor one's physical condition.
However, as pregnancy progresses, milk production may gradually decrease. This is because hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect milk production. If continuing to breastfeed, adjustments to the baby's diet may be needed based on the actual milk supply. It may be necessary to introduce complementary foods or formula milk to meet the baby's nutritional needs.
Pregnancy during lactation does not increase the risk of fetal malformations, but it may increase the risk of certain pregnancy complications, such as preterm birth and placental abruption. Therefore, it is recommended to pay closer attention to your physical condition, undergo regular prenatal checkups, and promptly detect and address any issues.
Additionally, it is recommended to communicate promptly with an obstetrician to understand your physical condition and prenatal care knowledge. If you do not have plans for childbirth or your physical condition does not permit continuation of the pregnancy, seek medical attention promptly and choose an appropriate method of pregnancy termination, such as painless abortion surgery.
