When Should You Stop Breastfeeding?

You made the decision to breastfeed your child. But now she’s getting older. It’s time to make another choice: When should you start weaning her?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that mothers feed their babies only breast milk for six months and continue breastfeeding for at least one year. After that, it depends on how long the mother and child want to continue.

Your friends and family may have strong beliefs about when you should stop breastfeeding. But in the end, it’s a very personal decision.

After nine to 12 months, your child may decide on her own that she no longer wants to nurse. Some other reasons that you might stop breastfeeding include:

• a business trip or other extended absence from home.
• a return to work. But you can keep breastfeeding after you go back to the office. Talk to your employer about a more flexible schedule, or ask your doctor or a lactation consultant how to pump and store your milk.
• another pregnancy. However, you can keep breastfeeding during your pregnancy. And nursing both children at the same time can help your older child adjust to the new addition.

It’s important to consider your feelings. Some mothers long to regain the independence they had before they began breastfeeding. Other moms feel guilty, sad, or lonely when their children no longer want to nurse.

To sort through your emotions, talk with a friend who has weaned a child. Or, write your thoughts in a journal. You can share it with your child when she’s older.

Remember that your child will still need you even after she is done breastfeeding. Weaning is the beginning of a new stage in your special relationship.