If you are breastfeeding and thinking of weaning your child then there are several things to consider, including timing, how many feedings to drop, and how and what will be best for you and your baby. Here are some tips to consider when starting to wean your baby.
How Long to Breastfeed
The American Pediatric Society recommends breastfeeding exclusively for six months and breastfeeding in addition to solids until your child is one year old. Extended breastfeeding is recommended for as long as mother and baby want to continue.
Readiness
It is often easier to wean when your baby shows signs of readiness, which can be sooner or later than your expected timeline. Once babies start receiving solids, their patterns of nursing can change and this can be a good time to transition. You also might decide to start the weaning process when you choose. It's important to consider what is best for you and your family.
Choose a Schedule
The weaning process is best taken slowly. Begin by tapering off how long and how often you are breastfeeding. This will cause your milk supply to gradually diminish over time instead of dealing with painful engorgement. Eventually you can begin dropping day time feedings and replacing with formula and cow's milk (or another type of milk, consult with your doctor for information) if your child is under one. Babies are typically more attached to morning and night time feedings, so these feedings might be last to go. Some mothers choose to day wean and continue nursing for comfort in the mornings and before bed. Typically your milk supply will adjust.
Distraction and Comfort
One thing you can do to keep older babies from nursing is to distract them with activities they enjoy. You can do this by taking your child to new, exciting places during typical feeding times. Sometimes it can be as easy as a trip to the park. You can also give your baby use a comfort item to cuddle with, like a special stuffed animal or blanket. These items can provide comfort like nursing and help provide your child with emotional reassurance. You might want to avoid places where you typically breastfed so your child won’t expect to nurse.
Breastfeeding can be an emotional journey for a mother. It is a special bonding time and you might have mixed emotions about weaning. By choosing a gradual approach to weaning with plenty of love and comfort you can successfully transition your child to a bottle or cup.
