Tandem breastfeeding: what is it about and what are its benefits and risks?

It is a very beneficial method for mothers who are pregnant again. This makes it possible to strengthen the bonds between mother and child and also between siblings, since both share their mother's breast milk. Although many may not know what is tandem breastfeeding all about. For this reason it is important to know what it is, its benefits, risks and above all how to do it correctly.

Tandem breastfeeding What is it?

It consists of a type of breastfeeding in which a mother who is still breastfeeding her little one, becomes pregnant once more. So she continues to breastfeed her first baby, while once the second is born, both of you can breastfeed at the same time.

The tandem breastfeeding it is quite common today, especially in women who have two or more pregnancies in a row. Although for some it may be a somewhat controversial issue, this type of breastfeeding improves the relationship between siblings.

Today, women experience breastfeeding in their own way. In some cases it is one of the most beautiful and magical processes in a mother's life. However, there are women who find it quite laborious and troublesome. When it is necessary to breastfeed two babies at the same time, the tension and difficulty often increase. So it is important to know how to do it correctly.

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Recommendations for Tandem Breastfeeding

If it is the first time in the world of tandem breastfeeding pdf, it is necessary to take into account some Recommendations for Tandem Breastfeeding. In this way, any risk to the mother and also to the little ones will be avoided.

In the first weeks of pregnancy, breast tenderness usually increases significantly. During the tandem lactation problems like this occur over the course of the first trimester and are reduced by the second trimester. Which can cause a series of discomfort when the first child is being fed.

Similarly, a hormonal increase occurs, while the structure of the breasts undergoes various changes. Both the breasts and the nipples become more sensitive and at the same time, more flaccid, especially between the third and fourth week of pregnancy. This causes various discomforts to appear during the breastfeeding process. Because the mother apart from coping with the pregnancy and must also feel the suction and pressure on her nipples while feeding the other little one.

Breast care is very important when implementing this or other types of breastfeeding. It is advisable to wash them only with preferably warm water, avoiding the use of products such as gels or soaps.

This is because around the areola are tiny bumps called Montgomery glands. These secrete a kind of oil that serves to hydrate the nipples, when using products such as those mentioned, this substance is lost.

After washing the breasts, it is best to gently towel them dry them or leave them to air for a few until they are dry. In case the nipples have small cracks, adding a little of your own breast milk allows them to heal quickly.

Milk production during tandem lactation

When a mother is in the process of tandem lactation, there is an increase in breast milk. This is because now there are two babies who need to feed through breastfeeding. However, it is possible that during the second trimester milk production decreases due to the hormonal process.

On the other hand, when the mother becomes pregnant again, her body focuses more on the baby in her womb. When the time of delivery is near, the body begins to produce a substance known as colostrum. Once the new baby is born, the milk will be specially destined for this for a time.

It should be noted that the first child will have no problem consuming breast milk with colostrum. However, it is advisable to reduce the amount, as its taste can become slightly salty and can sometimes cause diarrhea.

To avoid problems between siblings, mothers usually distribute the breastfeeding process, leaving one breast for each child. This way you can both breastfeed at the same time, you can also start one and then follow the other. The idea is to strengthen the relationship between the mother and the little ones.

Tandem breastfeeding benefits

There are many advantages when practicing tandem breastfeeding, these are not only reflected in the mother's health. The little ones can also be favored with this type of breastfeeding. When practicing the tandem breastfeeding benefits as the following can be taken into account:

– The baby that has just been born does not lose as much weight during its first days of birth. In addition, they tend to recover faster when they are constantly breastfeeding. In the same way, his brother helps with the stimulation of the breasts and thus, the smallest will be able to feed without problems.

– Due to the increase in milk production, there is no risk that the newborn suffers from any problem with its growth.

– The mother has gained experience breastfeeding her first child, so anxiety is greatly reduced.

– There is no negative effect on the mother by breastfeeding the two little ones at the same time.

– The risk of suffering from mastitis is reduced, this is because both children help the glands to empty when their mother breastfeeds them

– The milk rises quickly and easily, the older brother is important in this case, since his suction allows the smallest to feed without problems.

– During the tandem breastfeeding experiences very beautiful have been enjoyed between the mother and her little ones. This is because together they can create a great bond that makes them closer.

Tandem breastfeeding risks

Now the consequences of breastfeeding pregnant they can cause fear in many mothers who are in this situation. However, during the tandem breastfeeding risks and contraindications are less than what is thought. Even so, it is important to see a specialist before practicing this type of breastfeeding.

Infections such as moniliasis or candidiasis can be seen as the most serious risk when it comes to tandem breastfeeding. However, this can easily be solved by breastfeeding each child separately. Also, it is not recommended to breastfeed both using only one of the breasts.

In some children, the consumption of colostrum can cause certain problems in the stomach. This is because this substance has laxative properties that work in certain children, which could cause diarrhea in the first child.

Lastly, breastfeeding two children at the same time can be quite tiring and stressful for the mother. Reason why it is not recommended to practice this type of breastfeeding if it is just a short time before delivery.

During pregnancy and also during lactation, the mother needs the support of the whole family, especially that of her partner. In this way, these processes can be carried out with greater peace of mind and there will be no risk for those involved.

Sources:

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