Weaning breastfeeding is an extremely personal decision.
Both the WHO and AAP recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life with continuation of breastfeeding with the addition of complementary foods at 6 months and beyond. They further recommend to breastfeed for at least the first 2 years of life or beyond as mutually desired by both mother and baby.
While these are the recommendations, life is different for every mother and baby dyad. Weaning breastfeeding looks different for everyone. You also need to take into consideration whether breast milk is your baby’s sole source of nutrition or whether they are eating other foods. This makes a difference in how you go about this process.
In this article, we will look at how to decide when to wean your baby plus some tips on how to do it in a way that is best for both of you.
How to know when to wean your baby
Your baby may decide that it is time to wean from breastfeeding before you are ready to do so. It is important to know the difference between a temporary nursing strike and an actual desire to wean from breastfeeding. You may experience a drop in your milk supply at 6 months and think that is a sign to wean your baby. This may be true for some breastfeeding mothers, but for the majority, it is not a signal to start the weaning process.
However, there are potential signs that indicate your baby is ready to wean. This may include skipping feedings, nursing for shorter periods of time, showing interest in solid foods, and being easily distracted during feedings. However, factors such as illness, teething, or significant changes at home can pause or slow down the weaning process. It’s important to pay attention to your baby’s cues and not rush the weaning process if they are not ready.
If you are unsure if your baby is desiring to wean, discuss their behaviors with your pediatrician or breastfeeding medicine expert.
On the other hand, if you are ready to wean, you can start the process whenever you desire. Everyone’s breastfeeding journey is different. There are things to take into consideration and it is definitely best to take the slow approach to weaning, but it can be done at any age.
Consider your baby’s age
Babies between the age of 6- 12 months need formula or breast milk as their main source of nutrition as they are learning to take solid foods. In addition, babies under 6 months take breast milk or formula as their sole source of nutrition. These differences need to be considered when you are contemplating quitting breastfeeding.
Weaning a baby under 1 year old
Weaning a baby under 1 year old should be a gradual process that involves replacing breastfeeding sessions with bottle or cup feedings. It is important to start by substituting the baby’s least favorite feeding, and/or allowing a support person to feed the baby instead. It is important to wait a few days between each substitution in order to allow mom’s milk production to decrease gradually. This will prevent some of the complications of weaning such as engorgement, plugged milk ducts and potentially mastitis or breast infection. If you experience engorged breasts while you are weaning, you can hand express just enough milk to be comfortable.
For babies under 1 year old, formula can be offered as a substitute for breast feedings in a bottle or cup. Alternatively, frozen breast milk can also be given until it runs out. It is important to avoid cow’s milk until the baby is 1 year old or older, as their digestive system may not be ready to process it.
Weaning a baby at age 1 or above
In general, gradual weaning is the best route for a baby at age 12 months of age or more. This allows your breast milk supply to gradually decrease over time. Just like weaning a younger baby, you can start by replacing breastfeed sessions with either expressed human milk, infant formula milk, or cow’s milk in a cup or bottle. Begin by dropping one breastfeed at a time, waiting a few days or a week before dropping the next one.
Between the ages of 1 and 2, it’s preferable to wean the baby to a cup instead of a bottle to encourage independent drinking skills. Introducing cow’s milk as a source of calories and nutrients after 12 months is acceptable. If you don’t want to give cow’s milk or if your baby has an allergy, you can replace those nutrients with other complementary foods or milk alternatives. Keep in mind, that you need to limit cow’s milk to less than 20 ounces of milk per day.
Lastly, older breastfed babies may be more emotionally attached to breastfeeding than their younger counterparts. To make the weaning process a positive one, offer comfort and reassurance to the baby during bottle feedings, provide plenty of cuddles and physical affection, and maintain a predictable routine. It can be a difficult time or emotional time for both you and your baby. It’s okay to take it slowly or take some extra time if emotions are running high.
Tips for weaning daytime feedings
To transition from daytime feedings, start offering substitutions such as a snack, cup of milk, or comfort item to distract your child. Change up your daily routine to reduce the association between certain activities and nursing. Shorten the length of nursing sessions gradually to help your child adjust.
Next, be mindful of your routine. Anticipate nursing sessions and use the “don’t offer, don’t refuse” technique. This means not offering to nurse, but also not refusing if your child asks. This allows your child to gradually rely less on breastfeeding without feeling forced.
Additionally, you can enlist the help of your spouse or partner. If you were previously in charge of certain feedings, send your partner instead to provide extra comfort, a bottle feeding or a snack.
Tips for weaning bedtime feedings
Weaning nighttime feedings can prove to be more challenging than daytime feedings. Babies are sleepy at night and have less tolerance for changes in their routine. In order to wean bedtime feedings, start by gradually replacing nursing with cuddles, hugs, and soothing music. Preserve closeness with the child by spending quality time together during the transition period. Create a bedtime routine that is not centered around breastfeeding, such as reading a story, singing a lullaby, or having a warm bath.
If your baby is old enough to understand, it’s important to talk to the child about the transition. Explain that they are growing up and that bedtime will now look a little different. Involve the child in the process by asking for their input on the new bedtime routine.
In addition, allow other family members to help with sleep-time routines. This can help the child feel comforted and secure, even without the bedtime feeding. Whether it’s another parent, grandparent, or older sibling, having someone else involved in the bedtime routine can provide the child with the comfort and support they need during this transition.
Finally, expect mixed emotions during this transition.
Dealing with the emotions of weaning
Weaning is a significant developmental milestone for both the parent and the child. It is a sign that your baby is growing and changing.
In addition, this process can often bring about a range of emotions for both mom and the child. It is important to understand and address these emotions in a healthy and supportive way to ensure a smooth and positive weaning experience. From sadness and guilt to excitement and relief, navigating these emotions is an expected aspect of the weaning process.
Many women express the mixed emotions of weaning. One day, I was crying and another day, I was celebrating. These feelings come from changes in hormones as well as a mix of sadness and joy that your baby is growing.
What if my child is not ready to wean?
It is important to have patience with your child as you are weaning. If you note certain behaviors, it may be a sign that your baby is just not ready yet and you may need to reconsider your timeline:
- Increased tantrums
- Regressive behaviors
- Fussiness/anxiousness/clinging
If your child is resistant to weaning, consider partial weaning or slowing your pace towards complete weaning.
Why do I feel sad about weaning?
When weaning your baby, it is common to experience feelings of sadness and emotional adjustment. This can be due to the hormonal changes. A sudden decrease in prolactin and oxytocin levels can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and even depression. Additionally, the emotional bond and closeness formed during breastfeeding can lead to a sense of loss.
In order to cope with the emotional aspect of weaning, you can seek support from other mothers who have experienced similar feelings. Share your experiences and emotions.
Additionally, practice self-care, such as getting enough rest, engaging in activities that bring joy, and seeking professional help if needed. It is also important to take things at your own pace and not rush the weaning process if it feels emotionally overwhelming.
How Can 127 Pediatrics Help You?
At 127 Pediatrics, we offer concierge level pediatric and breastfeeding care. If you are near Colleyville, Texas and would like to know more about our in person services, fill out a contact form on our website for a free meet and greet. If you are not close to our practice, but would like breastfeeding support, we offer an array of services. From free resources like this blog or our YouTube channel all the way up to paid resources such as our online breastfeeding overview course. We would be honored to be part of your breastfeeding journey.
© 127 Pediatrics, January 2024
Please note that this article is purely for informational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice.
Dr. Andrea Wadley owns and operates 127 Pediatrics, a pediatric and lactation practice in Colleyville, TX. She specializes in pediatrics, breastfeeding medicine and offers house calls only. Additionally, Dr. Wadley is the owner of the 127 Pediatrics Online Breastfeeding Medicine and Education Center. We have many free resources for breastfeeding mothers. Subscribe to our YouTube channel or download a free breastfeeding checklist.
