Tandem Nursing

Sawyer Strand

Updated May 12, 2025 21:01

I am pregnant and breastfeeding my toddler—any tips on how to continue breastfeeding while pregnant and how to nurse both after delivery?

It’s amazing that you have continued to breastfeed during your pregnancy and plan to continue after your baby is born. This is called “tandem nursing,” which refers to breastfeeding two children at different developmental stages. Many moms find it to be a rewarding experience, and you can successfully nourish both of your children while making the transition easier for your toddler and yourself.

Benefits for Your Toddler

There are many long-term benefits that breastfeeding provides to older children.

Stronger Immunity: Your breast milk helps support your toddler’s immune system, which isn’t fully developed until they’re 3-6 years old.
Emotional Comfort: Adjusting to a new sibling can be tough. Continuing to breastfeed through this transition can ease feelings of jealousy and provide a familiar source of comfort and bonding.

Getting Ready for Tandem Nursing

Milk Supply Changes: Your body naturally adjusts and prepares for your newborn by changing the composition of your milk about halfway through your pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones prevent your body from increasing milk supply, even when adding more nursing or pumping sessions.
Nutritional Needs: Children over one year, who are eating solid foods, are still getting plenty of nutrients, even as your milk changes during pregnancy. If your older baby is under one year, watch their weight gain to ensure they’re getting enough to eat.
Colostrum for Your Newborn: There is nothing you need to do to get your breast milk ready for your new baby. No matter how much your toddler nurses during the pregnancy, your body will still produce colostrum for your newborn after birth.

When Baby Arrives

Prioritize Your Newborn’s Feedings: It’s best to let your newborn nurse first, to ensure they receive the nutrient-rich colostrum they need. This is usually not a problem, as toddlers typically nurse much less frequently than your newborn will need to. You might also consider making your hospital stay a special bonding time for just you and your newborn to establish feeding and latch. Your toddler will be excited to reunite when you’re home!
Enough Milk for Both: You don’t need to worry that your toddler will take the milk that is needed to nourish your newborn. Your body is designed to produce enough milk to meet the needs of both children. Milk supply increases based on demand. Nursing your toddler can also protect your milk supply, especially if your newborn is still learning to breastfeed effectively.
Preventing Engorgement: Nursing your toddler when your milk “comes in” can be especially helpful in preventing engorgement.

Managing Tandem Nursing

Helping Your Toddler Adjust: Your toddler will need to adjust to having a sibling that not only requires mom’s attention but is also sharing their meals! Some toddlers may want to breastfeed every time the baby does. Some moms allow this temporarily to ease the transition. If your toddler’s feedings increase, their poop may start to resemble a newborn’s again (yellow, liquid, and seedy). Over time, you can gently encourage less frequent nursing by offering distractions like books or games. Having a “breastfeeding box” filled with special toys that your toddler can only access while you’re breastfeeding their sibling can be especially helpful.
Nursing Both at Once: As breastfeeding is established with your newborn and you get comfortable, you may choose to nurse both children at the same time. If that’s not your preference, it’s okay to set boundaries, gently telling your toddler to wait for their own special time.
Hygiene Practices: There’s no need to wash your breasts between feedings. The Montgomery Glands on your nipples naturally keep them clean. If one child is sick, you may choose to assign each child to one breast until the illness passes.

Taking Care of Yourself

Tandem nursing takes extra energy—you’re eating for three! Prioritize self-care by:

Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients.
Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Resting whenever possible.
Adjusting your diet and sleep if you feel overly fatigued.
Asking for help from your support system.

Looking Ahead

Tandem nursing can be a beautiful and rewarding experience. If you need support, reach out to your peer counselor for tips on balancing breastfeeding with the demands of caring for two little ones.

When you feel ready to wean your toddler, the gradual weaning method is best. This gentle approach helps make the transition smoother for both of you. Take it day by day and adjust as needed. Your breastfeeding journey can end on a very positive note.

Your dedication to your children is truly amazing!