Folic acid & breastfeeding

[ReginaPhalange72]

Hi everyone, my DD1 is 7 months old, and I am still breastfeeding. It took us a while to fall pregnant so we are not using contraception, and would welcome another baby. Does anyone know the chances of falling pregnant while breastfeeding and if there is anything I can do to increase my chances? Also is it safe to take folic acid whilst breastfeeding DD1? thanks

It is possible to fall pregnant while breast feeding although it is common for periods to be irregular during that time.

Folic acid is excreted in breast milk. However folic acid can be safely given to children and is a vitamin found in food anyway. The best timing for taking it would be immediately after a feed to minimise the amount there during the next feed. Good luck ttc.

Thanks so much xwitch, good to know.

The vitamin supplement I take, which includes 400ug folic acid IIRC, is marketed for "pregnant and breastfeeding women". I was also a bit worried starting ttc while breastfeeding, but it put my mind at rest having found lots of similar supplements in the shops here in Germany. HTH