10 Signs of Pregnancy While Breastfeeding

May 10, 2023
Tripti Mohan – May 10, 2023

Hi Mommy! You are most likely to think you might be pregnant or should use…



Hi Mommy! You are most likely to think you might be pregnant or should use a contraceptive while still breastfeeding. Let’s understand more about it. Well, it could be why you have landed on this page. Sit back and read on to get your concerns resolved as we try to answer the questions in your mind. Let’s understand the Signs Of Pregnancy While Breastfeeding.

Here Are Ten Signs of Pregnancy While You Are Breastfeeding :

1

Menstrual Changes

After your child’s birth, it takes some time before you get your period. Now you may wonder if you can get pregnant without getting periods. The answer is Yes, you can. Before you start menstruating again, you begin to ovulate. Hence, there is a possibility of getting pregnant. Most mothers do not know when their period is going to come and hence do not know when to expect ovulation.

Menstrual Changes becauses of pregnancy

While breastfeeding, many mothers may also have irregular periods, Sometimes varying from spotting to heavy bleeding. This is another reason why you may find it difficult to understand your ovulation dates. In any case, if you miss a period, do take a pregnancy test.

2

Breast Changes

Soreness or sensitivity of breasts, darkened nipples, or an increase in the size of the breasts is the most common signs of pregnancy. However, if you are a new mommy and are breastfeeding, these signs could easily go unnoticed. If you see an unusual change, look for any of these other signs or take a pregnancy test to confirm.

Breast Changes because of pregnancy
3

Changes in Milk Production

Does your baby feed exclusively on breast milk? Then, you may notice a decrease in milk supply. There is also a possibility of your child suddenly refusing to feed. This is because there is a change in the smell and flavor of the milk. This could affect the baby’s feeding habits. Being aware of this symptom can help you solve your baby’s problem and understand that it could be a sign of pregnancy.

Changes in Milk Production due to another pregnancy
4

Nausea and Morning Sickness

Are your first-trimester symptoms like nausea and morning sickness returning? This could mean that you are pregnant. However, some breastfeeding, pregnant people seem to notice that they have lesser morning sickness than the previous time.

Nausea and Morning Sickness of you are in  pregnant
5

Fatigue and Exhaustion

This is not a clear indication of pregnancy because we know that even new mommies experience fatigue and exhaustion. Although, if you are feeling excessively tired and noticing changes in your sleep pattern, you might be pregnant again.

Fatigue and Exhaustion
6

Change in Appetite

Wanting to have more food and more frequently could be a sign of pregnancy. Your body is asking for more energy and nutrients to serve your breastfeeding baby and the one that is inside you. Craving or aversion to certain food or odor is also a very common sign.

Change in Appetite
7

Mood Swings and Emotional Changes

Many signs of pregnancy are similar to that of PMS. Hence, it is not easy to differentiate between their symptoms. Are you facing irritability, moodiness, or feeling emotional about the tiniest things? Your period could be arriving, or you could be pregnant. Some people also face depression and anxiety. Please be aware that it could be a post-partum symptom too.

Mood Swings and Emotional Changes
8

Physical Changes

Weight gain and changes in hair and skin are some signs of pregnancy. While you are a breastfeeding mom, it might be hard to note such small changes. But if you are on the lookout for pregnancy symptoms, these might be helpful. Regular headaches and back pain may also need your attention.

9

Increased Urination

We know this is a typical sign of pregnancy. If weeks or months after giving birth to your child, this urgent urge to urinate or more frequent urination returns, you are most likely pregnant again. It also could be the signs of pregnancy while breastfeeding.

10

Other Symptoms

Some other symptoms that you may notice if you are pregnant are:

  • Cramping or Spotting
  • Metallic taste in the mouth
  • A heightened sense of smell

If you are on a watch out for pregnancy, keeping track of these signs might help you understand if you are pregnant or not. Of course, the easiest way to confirm is to take a pregnancy test if you see any of these symptoms.

Here are a couple of other most frequently asked questions about the Signs of pregnancy while breastfeeding!

Is It Safe to Breastfeed While Pregnant?

Yes, it is safe to breastfeed while pregnant. Your body would produce enough nutrients for your newborn as well as the unborn child. However, as the pregnancy progresses, there is a chance of a reduced supply of breastfeeding milk and a change in taste due to the production of colostrum. Your baby might refuse to feed due to these breastfeeding changes. You may want to wean before that happens. However, if you are not yet ready to wean, this breastfeeding issue can be overcome in time.

If you want to wean your older child, it is best to do so while you are pregnant if the child is over 6 months. After the new one arrives, it might be overwhelming for you as well as the older baby.

Is Breastfeeding Effective as Birth Control?

In most cases, if your baby is being exclusively fed on breast milk and if it is not older than 6 months, breastfeeding can be effective at birth control. Your body is most likely not ovulating during this time. However, if your periods have returned during this time, the case is different.

Taking Care of Yourself

Childbirth, nursing, and sleepless nights are taxing enough for new moms. On top of that, if you get pregnant again, you need to take extra care of yourself. Here are some big little things you can do:

  • Eat healthy food, more often.
  • Fall in love with water again and stay hydrated.
  • Compensate your lost sleep.
  • Stay fit.
  • Make sure your partner or any other caregiver is at your disposal for at least one hour a day. Take a break and indulge in anything else that makes you happy.

Summing Up

Always be aware of the signs your body shows. The answers to most of your doubts are right there. If you are finding it hard to keep track of these signs, take a pregnancy test. Don’t let the thought of another possible pregnancy bother you. What is most important is that you remember to be kind to yourself.

  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3549114/
  • https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Pregnancy-and-your-mental-health
  • https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/pregnancy-and-diet
  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3549114/
  • https://breastfeedingconfidential.com/

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