Breastfeeding your second child can feel like both a familiar journey and a brand-new adventure. If you’re embarking on breastfeeding for the second (or third, or fourth!) time, you might already have some idea of what to expect, but every baby brings a new experience. With the joys and challenges that come with having an additional little one, this breastfeeding journey is bound to have its own unique story.
In this blog, we'll explore some of the differences you may encounter compared to your first breastfeeding experience, share tips to navigate these changes, and celebrate the surprises that come along the way.
Your Body Remembers: The Benefits of Prior Experience
Faster Milk Production
One of the benefits of breastfeeding your second child is that your body already knows what to do. Thanks to what could be called "muscle memory," your breast milk may come in faster and in greater abundance. Your body has learned from your first experience, and it’s ready to respond quickly and efficiently, which can make for a smoother start this time around.
Easier Latch and Positioning
Since you already have experience with latching positioning, it’s often easier to find a comfortable latch and positioning for your second child. You’re more familiar with reading your baby's hunger cues, trying different positions, and finding what works best for both of you. This familiarity can lead to a more relaxed and enjoyable start for both mum and baby.
Increased Confidence
Having prior experience with breastfeeding can boost your confidence. You know what works for you, and you’re better equipped to handle potential challenges. Even though each child is different, your confidence in your ability to breastfeed can help make this journey a rewarding one.
Navigating a New Family Dynamic
With a newborn in your arms and an older child needing your attention, it’s common to feel torn between the needs of both. Balancing your role as a mother of two can be challenging, and it’s a journey that involves a lot of learning along the way.
Balancing needs is one of the first challenges you may face. There will be times when you feel pulled in different directions — when your baby needs to be fed, but your older child wants your attention too. Finding a way to involve your older child can make a world of difference. Simple things like letting them grab a blanket, pick a book, or even help burp the baby can make them feel included in the process. Setting aside special one-on-one moments just for your older child is also important, helping them to feel secure and reminding them that they still hold a special place in your heart.
Sibling rivalry is another hurdle many parents encounter. The arrival of a new baby can bring feelings of jealousy for your older child, especially during breastfeeding sessions when they see so much of your attention focused on the baby. It’s natural for these emotions to come up, but talking openly with your older child about their feelings can help reassure them. Small gestures like giving them their own special role during feeding times — such as reading a story aloud or holding the baby's hand — can help foster positive feelings and reduce jealousy.
But there’s also joy to be shared. Including your older child in your breastfeeding journey can deepen the sibling bond. Imagine your older child sitting beside you, gently holding the baby's tiny hand or reading their favourite story to keep the baby entertained. These moments create a sense of togetherness and shared responsibility that can be heartwarming for everyone involved.
Sometimes, the solution to easing jealousy between siblings is to meet both of their needs at once. If your older child hasn’t weaned yet, you might consider tandem nursing.
Tandem Nursing: Feeding Two at Once
Tandem nursing, the practice of breastfeeding two children of different ages simultaneously, can be both a rewarding and challenging experience.
Tandem nursing comes with its own set of benefits and challenges. On the one hand, it can help boost your milk supply and provide comfort to both of your children. It can also simplify your feeding schedule, allowing you to nurse both children at once instead of managing separate feeding times. However, it does require a lot of time and energy. Some mothers experience nipple soreness or fatigue from the increased frequency of nursing, which can make tandem nursing demanding.
To make tandem nursing a smoother experience, finding a comfortable position is key. You may need to experiment with different positions, using pillows or cushions to support both children and yourself. Managing the feeding needs of your newborn and toddler is also important — many mothers find it helpful to let the newborn nurse first to ensure they get enough breast milk before allowing the older child to nurse. This way, you can balance both their needs and ensure everyone is well-fed.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
As you prepare for the arrival of a new sibling, it's natural to think about how this big change will affect your older child. Helping them understand what to expect can make a world of difference in how smoothly the transition goes. Talk to your older child about the new baby and how breastfeeding will be a part of your daily routine. Show them pictures or read books about babies being breastfed to help them visualise what will happen.
It’s also important to remember that every breastfeeding journey is different, even when you have more than one child. Set realistic expectations for yourself and your family. Be patient as you navigate this new dynamic, and understand that it’s normal for challenges to arise. Remember to eat foods that help increase milk supply and consider pumping and storing breast milk to give yourself more flexibility and reduce fatigue. Each experience is unique, and it’s perfectly okay to make adjustments along the way.
Above all, having a strong support system can make all the difference. Lean on your partner, family, or friends whenever you need extra help, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant for support. They can provide practical advice and reassurance to help you successfully breastfeed while balancing the needs of more than one child.
Embracing the Journey, One Feed at a Time
Breastfeeding your second (or third, or fourth) child is an opportunity to create new memories while building on your past experiences. While this journey may come with new challenges, it also comes with new joys — and a deeper understanding of your own resilience and love.
At Hegen Lactation Centre, we’re here to support you through every step of your breastfeeding journey. Whether it’s your first child or your fifth, our team of experienced lactation consultants and our classes are here to provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and community you need to thrive. Embrace the journey, one feed at a time, knowing you’re giving your little ones a precious start to life.