Tips for Weaning From Breastfeeding

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breastfed for 12 months. This is often a beautiful bonding experience as well as an especially healthy time for both mother and child. However, the time comes when the baby must be weaned. Regardless of how long you've been breastfeeding, you will experience some physical discomfort, and the child will probably feel some emotional upheaval. There are tips for weaning from breastfeeding that make the transition easier for both of you.

Transition Slowly

Mothers who have already weaned their babies never recommend going cold turkey, according to BabyCenter. "I weaned my son on his first birthday because I thought that's what I was 'supposed' to do," a mother named Terri told BabyCenter. "It was terrible. Neither one of us was ready to wean. The night I stopped nursing I was so engorged, and he was a screaming mess. Our lives were upside-down for weeks." Instead, BabyCenter recommends slowly replacing one feeding at a time with a cup or bottle over a period of two to three weeks.

Have Dad Help

Let dad (or another adult) give the baby his feedings from the bottle or cup for a few days, according to Parents.com. Babies associate their mommies with breastfeeding--especially if you have done so exclusively--and will likely be upset and confused if mom is the one to suddenly start feeding differently. Mom can take over after her baby has adjusted to the new feeding method.

Treat Engorgement

Even if you transition slowly, you are likely to suffer some discomfort from engorgement when you wean. WebMD recommends taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen for the pain and using cold compresses on your breasts. A supportive bra will also help. If you stretch the weaning process over a couple of weeks, you should have less pain. Your milk will dry up quickly when you completely quit nursing.