Breastfeeding Your Second Child: Is It Really Easier?

Many mothers believe that breastfeeding their second child is easier than their first. While this is often the case, it's not universally true. There are factors that can make breastfeeding a second child smoother, but also potential challenges that require careful consideration and preparation.

Why Breastfeeding The Second Child Can Be Easier

Dr. I.G.A.N Partiwi, a pediatrician, explains that breastfeeding the second child is often smoother. "Milk production tends to be more abundant and flows more easily," she shared during the launch of Pigeon's SofTouch™ baby bottle in Jakarta.

Theoretically, breastfeeding the second child is easier because the mother's nipples have already become well-formed, making it easier for milk to flow. Additionally, colostrum, the first milk produced after childbirth, is usually released faster. "Breastfeeding the first child is often more challenging because colostrum takes longer to come out," she added. As mothers have more children, the volume and speed of colostrum release from their nipples increases.

Challenges to Breastfeeding The Second Child

However, this ease isn't experienced by all mothers. Some find breastfeeding their second child more demanding, often due to distractions from their first child. "If the gap between births is less than three years, the older sibling might still be fussy. Breastfeeding needs a peaceful environment," Dr. Partiwi clarifies.

What makes breastfeeding the second child easier?

The milk production tends to be more abundant and flows more easily because the mother's nipples have already become well-formed. Also, the colostrum is usually released faster compared to breastfeeding the first child.

Why is breastfeeding the second child challenging for some mothers?

Mothers might find breastfeeding their second child more demanding because their first child might be fussy and require attention.

How can parents prepare for the arrival of a second child to make breastfeeding easier?

It is important to begin explaining the arrival of their new sibling to the older child before the birth. The father can also help by engaging the older child in play while the mother is breastfeeding the baby.

Tips for Success

To help mothers feel more comfortable while breastfeeding their second child, it's essential to ensure the older child doesn't cause disruptions. Begin explaining the arrival of their new sibling to the older child before the birth. Additionally, the father can play a crucial role in diverting the attention of the older child, for instance, by engaging them in play while the mother is breastfeeding the baby. With proper preparation, breastfeeding can become a more enjoyable experience for both mother and child.