Breastfeeding While Pregnant: What Now?

February Is Pregnancy Awareness Month

February, Pregnancy Awareness Month, is a time to raise awareness around maternal wellbeing, informed choices, and supportive care during pregnancy. At the South African Certified Lactation Consultants (SACLC), breastfeeding remains central to our work, and one question we often hear is: What happens when I fall pregnant while I’m still breastfeeding?

For many mothers, this situation can bring mixed emotions and uncertainty. Questions about safety, milk supply, comfort, and whether to continue breastfeeding are very common. These concerns are completely valid, and each mother’s experience will be unique.

Is it safe to breastfeed while pregnant?

In most uncomplicated pregnancies, it is safe to continue breastfeeding while pregnant. The body is designed to adapt, and many mothers are able to nourish both their unborn baby and their breastfeeding child at the same time.

However, there are situations where extra care may be needed, such as high-risk pregnancies, previous preterm labour, or significant uterine discomfort. In these cases, personalised guidance with one of our SACLC members and medical advice is important, so that mothers can make informed decisions that prioritise their health and wellbeing.

How pregnancy may change breastfeeding

Pregnancy brings natural hormonal shifts that can affect breastfeeding in a few ways:

• Nipple sensitivity or discomfort may increase, particularly in the first trimester

• Milk supply may decrease, often during the second trimester

• Milk taste and composition may change, as the body begins preparing colostrum for the new baby

Some breastfeeding children may self-wean during this time, while others continue feeding without difficulty. Both responses are normal.

Caring for yourself during this season

Breastfeeding while pregnant can be physically and emotionally demanding. Fatigue, nausea, and feeling “touched out” are common experiences.

Mothers are encouraged to:

• Rest whenever possible

• Eat nourishing, balanced meals

• Drink to thirst

• Set gentle boundaries around feeding if needed

• Lean on your village (where possible)

Listening to your body is essential. Your wellbeing matters just as much as the needs of your children.

What about breastfeeding after the new baby is born?

Some mothers continue breastfeeding throughout pregnancy and go on to breastfeed both children after birth. This is often referred to as tandem feeding.

While this can be a positive experience for some families, it is also okay to choose a different path. Whether a mother continues breastfeeding, weans during pregnancy, or makes changes after birth, the most important thing is that the choice feels sustainable and supported. It is also important to know that you can talk to any one of our Certified Lactation Consultants for guided support on how to navigate this time.

If weaning feels like the right choice

For some mothers, weaning your first during pregnancy may feel necessary — emotionally, physically, or medically. This decision can sometimes bring feelings of sadness or guilt, especially if it was unplanned.

It is important to remember:

• Every breastfeeding journey has value

• Choosing your health is never the wrong choice

• Ending breastfeeding does not diminish the bond with your child

Gentle, responsive weaning can help make the transition easier for both mother and child. Before you start weaning, you can contact one of our qualified consultants to help you with advice, questions you might have and to help guide you through the process.

A message of reassurance

Pregnancy Awareness Month reminds us that there is no single “right” way to experience pregnancy or breastfeeding. Whether you are breastfeeding while pregnant, considering weaning, or navigating mixed emotions, support and understanding are key.

At SACLC, we believe that informed, supported mothers are empowered mothers. Your journey is yours — and it deserves care, respect, and compassion.