The Average Duration of Breastfeeding

A large number of new mothers start out breastfeeding their infants, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many mothers, however, don't stick with it for a variety of reasons, which include poor latch on the part of the infant, pain or discomfort and a mother's return to work. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for a certain length of time, but many moms don't make it that long.

Overall Duration Average

In 2009, 76.9 percent of mothers began breastfeeding their babies at birth, according to the CDC. By 6 months of age, the number of breastfeeding mothers drops to 47.2 percent. That number drops even further so only 25.5 percent of mothers continue breastfeeding their infant until the one-year mark. A 2008 article published in "Pediatrics," a journal from the AAP, reports that exclusive breastfeeding tends to drop off after four months of age. It's difficult to pin down an exact average, however, because daily feedings, length of feedings and time between feedings varies across moms, according to "Pediatrics." In other words, some moms exclusively breastfeed for four to six months, while other moms might nurse while also supplementing with formula, and that influences how long a mom breastfeeds.

Recommendations

The AAP recommends that moms exclusively breastfeed for at least six months. Exclusive breastfeeding means that a baby doesn't receive any source of food other than breast milk. Further, the AAP recommends prolonged breastfeeding, in addition to baby food purees and table food, after six months of age and for at least one year. Breastfeeding offers babies certain health benefits, such as a reduced risk for gastrointestinal problems and certain infectious diseases, according to the World Health Organization. The AAP notes that breastfeeding might also reduce a baby's risk of eczema, ear infections, respiratory illnesses, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and obesity, as well.

Prolonging Your Breastfeeding

If you want to breastfeed for six months to one year, it's essential to get off on the right foot when it comes to nursing. After your baby is born, you might receive a visit from a lactation consultant before you're discharged from the hospital. Take advantage of that visit by having the lactation consultant show you how to have your baby latch on correctly and talk about how to produce enough milk. Also ask any questions you have about breastfeeding because mothers who have all the facts are often more successful. International breastfeeding support organizations can offer additional help, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. La Leche League International and International Board Certified Lactation Consultants are among your most reputable options.

Additional Considerations

Don't feel like a terrible mother if you're not able to breastfeed exclusively. Any amount of breast milk your baby gets is beneficial to his health. Formula is a nutritious alternative and it won't harm your little one. If you're determined to breastfeed exclusively, invest in a quality breast pump, especially if you plan to return to work. A pump allows you to express breast milk that your baby can drink from a bottle, which makes it easier for you to accomplish your goal if you can't nurse him each and every time he's hungry.