Breast milk is the best food for your baby, especially during the early months of her infancy. If you need to discontinue breastfeeding for any reason, try to wean your baby gradually to reduce the stress on both of you. Sudden weaning can put you at risk for a breast infection and is difficult on your baby. The support of another caregiver can make the transition easier on you and your baby.
When to Wean
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends nursing your baby for at least one year, and the World Health Organization recommends nursing through the second year of life and beyond, if desired. It is best to give your baby only breast milk for the first six months of life, then to gradually feed him more solids and less breast milk as he enters toddlerhood. If you must wean your baby before he is a year old, be sure to give him an iron-fortified baby formula. Ask his pediatrician for a recommendation.
Gradual Weaning
The easiest way to wean for you and for your baby is to do so gradually. Every week or so, drop one nursing and replace it with a snack, meal or bottle or cup of baby formula or milk, depending on the child's age. It may help to change your routine during the time of day that the feeding usually takes place. Avoid sitting in the rocking chair where you normally nurse your baby, for example, or take her out of the house to distract her. Also, ask your partner to feed her when possible to create a new feeding routine. The hardest feedings to give up often are the first one in the morning and last one before bed, so save those for last.
Sudden Weaning
Occasionally a mom has to wean her baby suddenly because she must take a medication incompatible with breastfeeding or has a health concern that precludes breastfeeding. One danger of weaning suddenly is mastitis, or a breast infection, caused by clogged milk ducts. When your breasts get uncomfortably full, use a breast pump or your hands to express some milk. Apply cold compresses to reduce discomfort and take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, if necessary. Having someone else feed your baby while you wean may make him more likely to accept a bottle.
Considerations
You can partially wean your baby but still continue to nurse for one or two feedings per day, if desired. This gives you the benefit of not always having to breastfeed and your baby the health benefits of still receiving breast milk. If, during the weaning process, you notice a hot, red spot on your breast or pain or swelling in the area, see your doctor promptly. You may have developed mastitis, which requires an antibiotic. Do not drink less or bind your breasts in a tight bra while weaning, as these strategies can lead to a breast infection.
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