Still breastfeeding, getting periods and positive OPKs. So why can't I get pregnant?

[FeelingLucky]

Almost all the RL Mums I know are now pregnant with second DC. They all tell me that if I'm serious about TTC I need to stop breastfeeding my 18 month old DD.

Please tell me they are wrong as I'm seriously considering weaning now.

DD only has 2 feeds a day during week and 3 feeds a day on weekends. No night feeding. Don't think it would bother her that much to wean, but it bothers me as nursing is great for when she's ill and gone off food, etc.

If you're ovulating why would you need to stop?

That's kinda what I'm trying to establish. Can you still get positive OPKs and not be ovulating?
And does breastfeeding reduce chances of implantation?

According to Kellymom, fertility can return gradually:

Several studies have indicated that fertility and ovarian activity return step by step (Ellison 1996, p. 326-327):

1. Follicular activity without ovulation (No chance of pregnancy.) 1a. Menstruation without ovulation (This does not always occur--see below.)
2. Ovulation without luteal competence (After the egg is released, fertilization may take place. During the luteal phase, the uterine lining is prepared for implantation as the egg travels down the fallopian tube and into the uterus. If the uterine lining is not adequately prepared for implantation, the implantation will probably not be successful.)
3. Full luteal competence (Full fertility -- at this point breastfeeding no longer has any effect on your chance of pregnancy.)

You can get positive and not ovulate yes, as they test for an LH surge which could then dissipate.
Have you seen the doctor?
How long have you been trying?

Thanks for the link DasiyMoo.
VS - thanks for answering my question. have been trying for 9 months but only been using OPKs for past 3-4 months.

Haven't been to the doctors and can;t see what they can do. even if eligible for fertility treatment on nhs not sure we would want to go down that route.
DD was only conceived after two years of trying and I only found out I was pregnant the month before our appointment at fertility clinic.

There is a group on here for those who are pregnant and breastfeeding or are tandeming, so you can get pregnant whilst still breastfeeding. I think if it took you so long before it may be that you need to give yourself chance this time. Is your cycle regular? Are you charting? It could help you to see what's going on, although I'm far too lazy to ever do it!