The longer you breastfeed the better for you and your baby, but there will probably come a time when you want to stop. Here are some tips to help:
How to stop breastfeeding babies
Over time your baby will stop looking to be breastfed if you gradually increase the gaps between feeds by offering your baby a drink from a cup or a bottle instead, or a snack if they’re eating solid foods. It’s important not to stop breastfeeding suddenly as that can lead to engorgement and mastitis.
If your baby is under 1 when you decide to stop you’ll need to give them formula but 1 year olds+ can have cows’ milk.
How to stop breastfeeding toddlers
Again, it’s important to stop breastfeeding gradually. Toddlers can sometimes be a little resistant to change, so these tips might help avoid some tantrums and tears!
- One approach would be to keep on breastfeeding only when your little one asks, but stop offering them the breast at any other time and give them drink from a cup instead If they are a bit older, tell them your plans to stop breastfeeding.
- If they are old enough to understand about time, you could make stopping a special date to aim for. This way, they might be prepared when the time comes.
