How to Nurse a Toddler Who Was Weaned

Weaning from breastfeeding should be a positive experience: a comfortable, natural ending to a special part of your relationship with your baby. However, because of a separation or a mother's pressure, weaning sometimes happens before a toddler -- or mother -- is really ready to be done. Other times, a mother may feel her toddler needs breast milk for medical or nutritional reasons. If you have weaned your toddler but believe for his happiness or health that you should try breastfeeding again, you can relactate with some effort and patience. (See References 1 and 2)

Instructions

1

Breastfeed your toddler whenever she asks to do so. Ideally, you should breastfeed at least every two to three hours. Encourage your toddler to nurse on both sides as long as she wants and allow her to nurse even if she isn't getting any milk. Sucking stimulation causes the pituitary gland to secrete prolactin and oxytocin, the hormones responsible for producing and releasing your milk. The more you nurse your toddler, the more you stimulate your breasts to start producing milk again. (See References 2, 3 and 4 Pages 23-24)

2

Pump every two to three hours if your toddler won't breastfeed frequently enough to build up your supply. Toddlers may become frustrated with breastfeeding if you have little to no milk at first or may simply not be interested in nursing as frequently as you need to relactate. Using a breast pump regularly for at least a month will provide the sucking stimulation you need. Make sure to pump even through the night, since nighttime breastfeeding is especially effective at generating prolactin. (See References 2 and 4 Page 24)

3

Consume foods and supplements that will help rebuild your milk supply. Take at least 3500 mg of fenugreek a day. Slowly increase your daily dosage until your urine smells like maple syrup. Cook and eat a bowl of "steel cut oats" oatmeal every day. Drink half a can of beer. Discuss with your doctor the possibility of taking a prescription medication that increases prolactin levels, such as Reglan. (See References 2, 5 and 6)

4

Find support for your efforts to breastfeed again. Emotional support plays a critical role in encouraging mothers to go through the stress and effort of relactating. Having your partner's support is particularly important if your other family members, friends or doctor disapprove of your desire to breastfeed your toddler again. (See References 4 Pages 18-19)