Can I breastfeed?

Illustration accompanying Can I breastfeed?

Women with SCI, just like women without SCI, are encouraged to give breastfeeding a try. By trying, you can then see how it works for both you and for your baby. If breastfeeding does not work well, there are several safe and healthy options available to you to ensure both your needs and your baby’s needs are met.

Many of the main questions and concerns women with SCI have shared with us are outlined in this guide. The information, recommendations, and resources below are intended to help you to gather information, to help guide your breastfeeding planning, to help you to problem solve common challenges or to help you to explore new ways of doing things as you work to find a feeding plan that is the right fit for you and your baby.

Recommendations:

  • You are encouraged to try to breastfeed and see how it goes for you and your baby.
  • If you have challenges or questions about breastfeeding talk to your health care providers. You may wish to share with them a copy of this resource guide to discuss together.