TTC whilst BF'ing!

[JosieP]

Hi there everyone, I'm new so please someone send me a response!
My dh and I are trying to conceive but don't know if a. it's possible or b. how to time things.....my dd is 5 1/2 months old and I'm exclusively breasfeeding, only 4 times a day and she sleeps 12 hours at night, so there is a really long break between feeds at night. I haven't got AF back yet but I've had what feels like menstrual cramps a couple of times.
Does anyone have any advice? Thank you!!

[Toothache]

JosieP - No advice I'm afraid. Someone will answer though, it's just that your post came in at 3.42am UK time..... are you outwith the UK?

I think you are a very brave woman TTC so soon after the birth of your DD! I couldn't contemplate it until ds was 2! But I'm a wimp.

I think if your AF hasn't returned then your chances are probably lower than when they do return, but I'm sure there's a whole host of MN'ers with wonderful and accurate info for you.

Good luck TTC.

[Ghosty]

It is possible JosieP ... My mum got pregnant when my brother was 3 months old and b/feeding. In fact she says she didn't have 'AF' (I know that means period but what DOES is stand for? I have always wondered!) from when she conceived my brother until after she had my sister.
PS My sister was born on my brother's first birthday ...
Good luck !

[Toothache]

Ghosty - It stands for Auntie Flo.

[Pidge]

My understanding is that you can conceive when breastfeeding before you get your period because you may conceive the first time you ovulate, i.e. before you get your first period. Women vary hugely in when they start ovulating again when breastfeeding - it can be anywhere from a couple of months to well into the second year. I was feeding exactly the same amount as you JosieP, with a 12 hour break overnight, my periods restarted when my dd was about 9 months old.

Good luck - I admire your courage. My dd is nearly two and I'm just about getting my head round the idea of thinking about another baby now!

[JosieP]

Thank you all for your advice! I'm living in dreadful Texas, USA, hence the timing of my message! I think it's probably a matter of lots of BD (what a happy hubby I'll have!!) until I 'feel' preggie....unless of course AF returns first! I sometimes think I'm crazy wanting another one so soon, but my dd has been an absolute angel (this week not counting as her two bottom teeth are coming through simultaneously!)....I'm sure no. 2 will be a horror but we're still keen.......yes, I am crazy I've just decided!!
This website is great - I think I'm hooked already, you all seem like a great bunch of ladies!

[Ghosty]

Thank you Josie ... we are