Tips for Weaning from Breastfeeding
Weaning is a special time in the lives of babies and their mothers. Breastfeeding is a long-term investment in your child’s health and development and weaning can be part of the joy. It is a kind of “graduation” from one stage to another.When a child should be weaned is a personal decision. It is usually recommended that a baby be breast fed for 12-36 months, but that is not always attainable in every family situation. When one or both members of the mother-baby team are not enjoying it anymore, it is time to wean. Here are some tips to help you and your baby in the weaning process.
Remember, breast feeding is more than giving milk. It is also about giving love. When you begin weaning, be prepared to give you baby lots of attention in other ways. Keeping your baby busy will help him stay happy. Play time, outings, developing or building relationships with other family members and friends can be a positive outcome of the weaning process. Encourage regular naps but try to discourage the child from sleeping at the breast.
Weaning should take place gradually. Choose one feed in the middle of the day to skip first. Then, every week or so, drop another feeding. Most babies and mothers love the early morning and before bedtime feeds. Some will continue those feedings for quite some time.
We suggest using the “don’t offer, don’t refuse” method. Do not insist your baby breastfeed. If your child is persistent, or his behavior deteriorates, this may indicate that, for now, breastfeeding is a need rather than a want. It is okay to keep the breastfeeding sessions short. If you baby gets sick, he may need more frequent breastfeeding for a while.
Babies who wean before 12 months should get formula. After 12 months, most may take whole milk by sippy cup. Ask your doctor or nurse practitioner about starting or increasing complementary foods during your baby’s weaning process.
Moms who are weaning sometimes feel uncomfortably engorged. Watch for painful lumps, hot tender areas in the breast, malaise or fever which could indicate signs of plugged ducts or mastitis. If you experience any of these symptoms, the weaning process may need to be delayed. We suggest you breastfeed often as this may alleviate the symptoms of clogged ducts and mastitis. If you think you are developing a breast problem, call your OB/Gyn doctor or lactation consultant for advice.
Some moms may need a little help bringing their milk supply down. You can try one or more of the following: wear a tight-fitting bra, apply cool compresses or crushed cabbage leaves to the breast. Also consider drinking sage tea or eating mint, sage and parsley.
Weaning takes time and patience. The pace at which a child weans is different for every child and should be respected. It usually means his basic needs as a baby have been met, and he is secure and ready to enter the next stage of development. Another time to enjoy!
Article information last modified on: 4/7/2025