I had high blood pressure during my last pregnancy, and it developed into preeclampsia. I’m pregnant again, and I want to breastfeed this time. Will I be able to if this happens again?
Yes, mothers with high blood pressure that develops into preeclampsia can successfully breastfeed their babies.
A mother’s blood pressure is closely monitored during pregnancy. High blood pressure can start before pregnancy or develop as a pregnancy-related condition. According to Cleveland Clinic:
“Preeclampsia is a serious medical condition that can occur about midway through pregnancy (after 20 weeks). People with preeclampsia experience high blood pressure, protein in their urine, swelling, headaches and blurred vision. But you may have no symptoms. Treatment is necessary to avoid life-threatening complications. It typically goes away after childbirth.”
Let’s focus on how preeclampsia has the potential to affect breastfeeding.
Prematurity
Preeclampsia can lead to premature delivery, and anything that causes babies to be born early may affect breastfeeding. Babies born very prematurely often need extra care when it comes to breastfeeding. Moms often need to express breast milk consistently to establish and maintain their milk supply until the baby is able to latch. Late-preterm infants (babies born between 34 -36 weeks gestation) may latch well but still need additional support.
Sleepy Baby
Prolonged high blood pressure during pregnancy can result in a baby having a lower-than-average birth weight. They may be overly sleepy and require extra help to latch onto the breast. If baby is too sleepy to stay latched, moms should begin hand expressing colostrum. Colostrum is highly beneficial for babies and can be given using an alternative feeding method to avoid bottle introduction too soon.
Medications
Breastfeeding is safe and recommended even when medication is needed to control blood pressure. Discuss your plan to breastfeed with your doctor during pregnancy, and talk about the safest medication options for you and your baby.
Postpartum Preeclampsia
Postpartum preeclampsia occurs shortly after childbirth—most commonly within 48 hours but can occur up to six weeks after delivery. Any woman can develop this condition, even if she didn’t have high blood pressure during pregnancy. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of high blood pressure, and attend all follow-up appointments.
Breastfeeding is very beneficial for both moms and babies. It doesn’t worsen high blood pressure; in fact, it may improve the condition.
While some studies suggest postpartum preeclampsia may affect milk supply, working with a lactation consultant and your doctor can help reduce the risk. Some medications, such as diuretics, are safe to take while breastfeeding but can decrease milk supply. Talk with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for you.
Support is Available
We’d love to have you join a Zoom breastfeeding preparation class! Click here for more information. Your peer counselor is here for you every step of the way and can refer you to our breastfeeding specialist for more support.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20046098
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17952-preeclampsia
https://www.highriskpregnancyinfo.org/postpartum-preeclampsia-and-breastfeeding