Trying for a 2nd baby

graciaann

Hi, I have a seven month old and my husband and I would really like to start trying for a sibling for our daughter.

Problem is, I haven't gotten my period yet (so no ovulation, right? Or is it possible to ovulate with no period? I didn't think so but maybe I don't know!) 

I have been trying to wean my daughter from BFing so that it will return - I go 6-8 hour stretches without bfing or pumping but still have not gotten my period. Do I have to completely quit nursing for this to happen? 

I feel a bit guilty as maybe I should just concentrate on continuing to nurse my daughter, but she refuses a bottle and the weaning has been so tough. At the same time, I'd love to have our kids close in age as I was with my brothers.

 Any thoughts / suggestions?  

bucklebunny1

Personally, I would not wean. Often when your daughter starts more solids AF returns. It is possible to get pregnant. You have to ovulate and gave your period return at some point so if you are having unprotected sex and you ovulate you can get pregnant before your period ever has a chance to return. I know several people this has happened to.

LynsiBHM

I know it's possible but not likely until your period returns (at the very least it would be tough to time things!)  If you're ready to wean, you should go for it. She will get better with the bottle. In the long run, she won't know the difference if you stop BFing a couple months earlier but she will know how close she is with her sibling(s). Only you know what's right for your family, but you should talk to your OB and see what your best options are.

meltoine

You ovulate before you get your period, so you can get pregnant any time now theoretically. Pick up a copy of Taking Charge of Your Fertility. There's a chapter on postpartum fertility that will be helpful to you. 

Personally, I wouldn't wean to conceive another child. To me, nourishing the kid I already have is more important than trying for another. But, I fully understand and respect that not everyone feels that way. If you really want to wean to get pregnant, go ahead. If I were in your shoes I would keep BFing until LO hit one year so I wouldn't have to buy formula (so expensive!) At that point you can wean LO to cows milk and your fertility should return, if it hasn't yet. In the meantime, keep trying and maybe you'll get lucky! 

graciaann

Thanks - I really appreciate advice. I totally get your opinion as its what I am struggling in my head with making the decision. I put an order out for that book at the library today in fact, so I look forward to reading it before I make a decision! In reality, its only a few more months until she is 1, so maybe that's a good compromise.  

daisy889

Yes you can get pregnant if you dont get your period. I get mine maybe 3 times a year, i am very irregular and what do ya know I have a 6 month old! I also didnt get my period 3 months before this so i ovulated with no period.