Pam, This is Shirley M. in Phoenix, and I tanden nursed my second and third
child together for 3 years.  #2 child was 18 mos. when her brother was born.
He weighted 9lb. 10 oz.  Very healthy.  I nursed both of them until a week
before baby #4, who weight 7 lb., 8 oz. My hemoglobin was 14-15 with the last
two deliveries, so good nutrition as well as zinc and other vitamin
supplements made me feel comfortable nursing through.  I don't see birth
defects being a concern, it's not logical.  You need to watch for premature
contractions, or premature labor, and eat well.  Mothers have done this for
centuries.  I believe the body cares for the newborn baby first, and then
provides for the nurslings who are usually also eating table foods.  Hope you
lie down a lot.  I found it was sooo important to rest with the kids.
Shirley Morris, RN, IBCLC, LMT

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