About Tandem Nursing

Concerns

• The most common concern about continuing to breastfeed during pregnancy is whether this puts the pregnancy at risk. However, no evidence exists to suggest that this is the case, provided there are no complications with the pregnancy. If a mother has previously given birth prematurely; is carrying multiples; or shows signs of preterm labor; she may be advised by her practitioner to wean her older child. Lactation releases the hormone oxytocin, which may stimulate contractions and lead to premature labor, which does carry risks for the unborn baby. According to Smith, it is normally thought to be safe to nurse until around 20 weeks of gestation, because oxytocin does not have an impact on the uterus until around week 24. If you are deciding whether to continue nursing during pregnancy, take your medical history and the age and needs of the nursing child into account. In the majority of cases, it is a decision to be made by the mother rather than her medical practitioner.

Practical Considerations

• It's important to let the newborn nurse first, because he needs lots of colostrum -- the antibody-rich first milk. Breast milk is less important for the older child, because she will be getting nutrients from the other foods in her diet. An oversupply of milk is a common issue with tandem nursing, because the older child nurses more vigorously than the newborn. This may become a concern if the newborn chokes when trying to nurse. To avoid this, let the older child nurse for a short time before the newborn. It shouldn't take long for the milk supply to adjust to the needs of both children, at which point they can be fed at the same time (one on each breast) or separately. If you want to nurse simultaneously, bring your newborn to your breast first, suggests Tamra Orr, author of "A Parent's Guide to Homeschooling," then invite your older child to take your other breast. Pillows or cushions will make tandem nursing more comfortable for you. Keep your strength up by getting plenty of sleep, drinking lots of fluids and eating healthily.

Benefits

• Many tandem nursing mothers report that their older child feels less insecure or jealous about the arrival of a new sibling, because nursing helps her feel comforted and loved. Another possible benefit of tandem nursing is the creation of a close bond between siblings, particularly if they nurse at the same time. Additionally, the older child does not have to deal with premature weaning, which may cause psychological damage if it is not what the child wants, says Orr.

Weaning

• You shouldn't feel guilty if you are apprehensive about continuing to nurse your older child following the birth of your newborn. After labor and delivery, you may be in a great deal of pain or discomfort, or suffer from fatigue or the baby blues. Consider weaning your older child if you find it difficult to give your newborn enough attention. Smith suggests weaning your older child gradually to limit distress. Involve your partner in the weaning process; make sure your older child is occupied with other things when you are nursing your newborn; and offer appealing activities and snacks in place of nursing.

Support

• Tandem nursing is a common practice in many cultures throughout the world, but less so in the United States. Breastfeeding one baby requires dedication, perseverance and support. Tandem nursing needs these elements in even larger amounts. Moms who choose to tandem nurse should seek support from family members and friends, the La Leche league or online communities of other moms who tandem nurse.