How to Get Pregnant When Nursing

Are you still nursing your little one, but hoping to get pregnant again? It is a common misconception that this is not possible, but much to many a mother's surprise, it is indeed possible to conceive while breastfeeding. In fact, if your menstrual cycle has returned, there is a very high possibility that if you are trying to conceive, you will. You don't have to wean your nursling, even if and when you do become pregnant. These simple steps will help your determine your fertility while breastfeeding and help you try and get pregnant while still nursing a little one.

Instructions

Getting Pregnant While Breastfeeding

1

Determine whether your body is fertile and ready to get pregnant. Are you experiencing a regular (for you) menstrual cycle? A cycle that is longer, shorter or more irregular than you normally have can be a sign that your fertility is not yet on track. However, according to Robert Zurawin, an obstetrician, you often will release your first egg before you get your first period after delivery, so you won't know that you're fertile until about two weeks later.

2

Monitor your cervical mucus for changes. If your period has returned, you have most likely returned to some degree of fertility, says Zurawin. Monitoring your cervical mucus and using your basal body temperature will both help point to ovulation indicators. An ovulation indicator kit or basal body temperature thermometer can be purchased at a pharmacy or online.

3

Chart your basal body temperature. To chart (sample charts are often sold with the thermometer or can be found online at the sites referenced in the Resources section) your basal body temperature, you must record your temperature each day first thing in the morning. That means as soon as you sit up in bed--don't drink anything, go to the bathroom or get up. Just take your temperature. The best day to begin is on the first day of your menstrual cycle. According to Toni Weschler, author of "Taking Charge of Your Fertility," you have ovulated when your temperature rises 0.2 degrees higher than any temperature from the previous six days, and it stays elevated for at least three consecutive days.

4

Try reducing the amount of nursing. If you're not ovulating yet, supplement nursing with a bottle or some solid (pediatrician-approved) baby food. This will lower your hormone levels a bit and help your cycle get back to normal. You don't have to wean completely, but changing your breastfeeding schedule or cutting back will help get your fertility back in order, reports Hilary Flower, author of "Adventures in Tandem Nursing: Breastfeeding During Pregnancy and Beyond."