Breast-feeding more than one child of different ages

Breast-feeding more than one child is called tandem breast-feeding. If you continue to feed your older child along with your newborn, keep in mind that the youngest child's feeding is the highest priority.

Some general feeding guidelines can help ensure that your newborn is properly nourished:

• Feed the newborn 10 to 12 times a day, without time limitations.
• During the first 3 days after the birth, focus all your efforts on breast-feeding the newborn. Always breast-feed your newborn before an older child. This ensures your baby is nourished with colostrum. You may want to stop breast-feeding the older child for these 3 days, although he or she can breast-feed right after your newborn has finished.
• Closely monitor your newborn's weight gain and growth.

Early research shows that breast-feeding more than one child may harm the youngest child's growth.¹ If you decide to breast-feed more than one child, make sure your newborn maintains a healthy growth pattern. Talk to your doctor about any specific questions or concerns. Be aware that the interruptions in your older child's breast-feeding routine may naturally begin the weaning process.

Citations

1. Marquis G, et al. (2002). Postpartum consequences of an overlap of breastfeeding and pregnancy: Reduced breast milk intake and growth during early infancy. Pediatrics, 109(4): 1–8.