For the first 6 months of a baby's life, she needs only breast milk or formula to sustain her. At 6 months, she will typically be ready for solids and at 1 year old, she is ready for another milk source, such as cow's milk or soy milk. When she begins to drink another type of milk, be ready for changes in breastfeeding; consult your child's pediatrician before making any dramatic changes to your child's diet. Toddlers need a total of 16 oz. of milk a day, "Parents" magazine reports.
Changes in Breastfeeding Needs
Because the baby is getting some of her nutrients from another milk source, she might not want to nurse as often. However, babies who find great comfort in nursing might still nurse the same number of times, but not take in as much milk. Other babies may continue to nurse with the same frequency and will only drink a small amount of the alternative milk source, MayoClinic.com explains. Mom's milk supply will change to match the baby's new needs. If weaning is done slowly, it will be less painful for the mom.
Better Sleeping
Because the baby is eating solid foods and drinking another milk source, she may begin to sleep through night feedings. For the first few nights, mom may wake up with sore, engorged breasts, but this will stop within a few days after her breasts adjust to the baby's new demands. In the meantime, to ease the discomfort, mom can pump a small amount of milk from her breast.
Baby-Led Weaning
Once the baby is introduced to a cup or bottle, he might prefer that to the breast. Milk often flows faster from a bottle than from the breast and when he can hold the bottle or cup on his own, he will be more involved in his feeding. He is learning to become more independent and this may affect his interest in nursing. This is a natural step in a child's growth and an expected behavior.
Emotional Effects
Breastfeeding is a bonding, warm experience for both mother and baby. While every baby will eventually wean himself, some babies will do this when they are introduced to another source of milk. For the mother, however, this can be a sad process. She might feel that she is losing a connection with her baby. Fortunately, this is not the case. Mom and baby can still find plenty of time for cuddles and hugs during the day when they stop nursing.
