When To Stop Breastfeeding

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that mothers exclusively breastfeed their babies for six months and continue breastfeeding for at least a year. After that, it is entirely up to the mother and child to continue.

Friends and family members may have strong opinions about when you should stop breastfeeding. However, in the end, it is a very personal choice. Only you and your child know what is best for you and your child.

Your child may decide on her own after nine to twelve months that she no longer wants to nurse. Other reasons for discontinuing breastfeeding include:

• An extended business trip or other absence from home

• Resumption of work. You can, however, continue breastfeeding after returning to the office. Discuss a more flexible schedule with your employer, or ask your doctor or a lactation consultant how to pump and store your milk.

• A new pregnancy. You can, however, continue breastfeeding during your pregnancy. Nursing both children simultaneously can also help your older child adjust to the new addition.

Handling The Emotional Side

It is critical to consider your emotions. Some mothers yearn to reclaim the independence they had prior to breastfeeding. Other mothers feel guilty, sad, or lonely when their children refuse to nurse. They miss the bonding with their children that they had while breastfeeding.

Speak with a friend who has weaned a child to help you sort through your feelings. Alternatively, keep a journal of your thoughts. When your child is older, you can share it with her.

Remember that your child will require your assistance even after she has finished breastfeeding. Weaning marks the start of a new phase in your special relationship.

What’s Happening To My Body?

When you stop breastfeeding, your body will undergo numerous changes. Expect variations in:

• The size and shape of the breasts. Your breasts will most likely shrink again, though this may take several months. They may end up being a slightly different size or density than before you became pregnant. If they feel engorged or overfull, try releasing a small amount of milk with your hand or a pump.

• Reproductive health. If you only breastfeed your baby, your chances of getting pregnant again are low (but not impossible) for six months after your baby is born, or until you start getting your period again. When you stop breastfeeding, your chances increase. If you don’t want to get pregnant, talk to your doctor about when you should start using contraception again.

Take your time to wean your baby

You can wean your baby to a cup or bottle depending on his or her age and need for sucking. If you decide to use a bottle, your baby will eventually need to be weaned off of it.

Begin with the breastfeed that your baby appears to be least interested in that day. If your breasts are uncomfortable after missing a feed, you may need to express a small amount to avoid blocked ducts or discomfort from fullness. Reduce the time spent expressing or the volume removed over several days to allow the breasts to adjust. Then, depending on your breast comfort and your baby’s willingness to cooperate, cut out another breastfeed every few days or even every week.

As weaning progresses and milk supply decreases, the concentration of antibodies to bacterial and viral diseases in breastmilk increases. This protects your baby while they are being introduced to new foods and exploring new environments.

Remember to give your baby plenty of cuddles during the weaning process so that you and your baby can spend as much time together as possible.

Reduce the number of breastfeeds gradually to protect your baby during the weaning period and to avoid problems such as mastitis. If you need to wean your baby quickly, consult a healthcare professional or a lactation consultant about breast care.

The child who does not want to be weaned

You may be ready to stop breastfeeding, but your child may resist your efforts. Your approach will be determined by the age of your child. There are numerous methods for weaning a baby.

Unfortunately, the child must be able to comfortably hold a bottle, sippy cup, or straw cup before you can wean them to ensure they can take adequate feed volumes.

Talk to your child about your breastfeeding if they can talk and understand. Explain that you are going to take a break and introduce other ways to enjoy being close together. You could seek professional advice about weaning or weaning difficulties.