To be honest, you probably don't know how long you'll be breastfeeding for when you first start. You're just trying to get through the painful breastfeeding sessions, lack of sleep, and general exhaustion. In all likelihood, you just want to figure out how to breastfeed without going crazy.
Once you get your rhythm, though, things really start to take off. As you and your baby settle into a nursing rhythm, your little one has mastered the latch. Breastfeeding may become routine after a while, and you may look forwards to the quiet moments when you and your baby may share a meal together.
Assuming you and your infant have reached a point where breastfeeding is going swimmingly, you may be wondering, "When am I supposed to stop?" Maybe you've heard of "extended breastfeeding" or wondered what it's like to breastfeed a baby or toddler who's gotten a little older.
No doubt you have a lot of concerns when you think about continuing in nursing after the initial year. All these uncertainties. Indeed, that is the norm. If you need solutions, you've found the correct spot to look.
My Baby Nursery is a curated online resource for parents looking for baby products.
Extended breastfeeding refers to breastfeeding for more than a year. However, the term "extended breastfeeding" gives the impression that continuing to nurse over the first year is regarded exceptional. Only in the West has this misconception taken hold. It's perfectly natural to breastfeed for more than a year, and in many cultures it's common for mothers to continue doing so for two, three, or even more years.
What Extent Should You Breastfeed?
Babies should be breastfed for as long as both the mother and the kid feel it is beneficial. It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) that mothers breastfeed their babies exclusively for the first six months, and then continue doing so while gradually introducing solid meals during the remainder of the first year. After the first year, the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages continuing nursing for as long as mother and child desire.
No psychological or developmental harm has been shown to result from continued nursing far beyond the third year of life.
Is It Suggested That Babies Be Fed Exclusively By Breast Milk After Infancy?
It is suggested that infants be breastfed exclusively for the first six months of life, and then to continue breastfeeding while also introducing solid foods until at least one year of age. Breastfeeding is then encouraged for as long as both mother and child desire.
Breastmilk Feeding After the First Year
Breastmilk is the most important diet for infants since it provides them with all the nutrients they need to grow and develop normally in the first six months of life. Premature weaning from breast milk requires the use of infant formula. If you need more information, talk to a nurse specialising in maternal and child health.
After the first year, most parents find that they can wean their infants off of infant formula and onto a more varied diet that includes dairy products.
Beyond the Newborn Stage, What Advantages Does Breastfeeding Have?
The baby continues to reap the benefits of breastfeeding well into their toddler years.
Well-Rounded Diet
When it comes to newborn nourishment, breast milk is tops. Breast milk is thought to have significant nutritional value for a child until at least the age of 2.
Enhanced Resistance
The cells, hormones, and antibodies in your breast milk will continue to strengthen your child's immune system as long as you nurse.
A mother can get benefits from breastfeeding much beyond the infant years.
Safeguarded Against the Development of Some Diseases
Evidence suggests that the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes is reduced in women who breastfeed for a total of 12 months or more throughout their lives.
How Important Is Breast Milk to an Older Infant?
If your baby is getting enough breast milk, that is.
A child may continue to consume a small amount of breast milk after the first year of life. Therefore, he or she will continue to receive essential nutrients from breast milk. Some infants and toddlers may get all the nutrients they need from solid foods and need only a tiny amount of breast milk, while others may prefer formula. It's best to consult your child's doctor if you have any concerns about your child's nutrition, including the potential role that breast milk may play in it.
Would Prolonged Breastfeeding Cause More Difficulty in Weaning?
Certainly not! The best time to start weaning is whenever your child shows interest, which could be earlier or later than you anticipate.
Natural weaning usually starts at six months of age, when the first solid foods are introduced. When they reach the one-year mark, some infants begin to wean themselves off breast milk in favour of alternative sources of nourishment and solace. Some parents wait until their child is no longer content to sit still while breastfeeding to begin weaning.
Extra-Long-Term Breastfeeding
What is meant by "extended nursing" varies depending on who you ask, where you reside, and how long you've been breastfeeding your child.
For some cultures, continuing breastfeeding well beyond the first year of life is the norm, therefore this practise isn't seen as "extended" at all.
When asked how many infants were still breastfeeding at 12 months and 18 months, the CDC reported that 36 percent and 15 percent, respectively. Many people, however, consider breastfeeding for more beyond the recommended minimum time period or the first few months to be "extended."
Nursing your baby is encouraged by most medical professionals and organisations for at least a year.
Certain mums and their infants take such pleasure in nursing that they see no need to stop. Despite the disapproval of well-meaning relatives and friends, you should do what makes you and your child happy. Breastfeeding is common for kids up to four years old.
Having something prepared to present to loved ones about your decision to continue nursing can be beneficial. What this means for your child's future health, safety, and ease of mind is up for debate.
The Positive Effects of Prolonged Breastfeeding
As long as you continue to breastfeed, your child will receive all of the positive health and growth effects. The longer you breastfeed, the more beneficial many of the services become.
Nutrition
Among the several milk options available, breast milk is the healthiest for your baby. Breast milk helps to round out your child's nutrition, even though many kids are already eating a wide variety of foods by the time they reach a year old. It will keep on nourishing your infant with fat, protein, carbs, vitamins, and minerals.
It's not true that milk loses its nutritional value or "turns to water" after a certain amount of time has passed. Nutritional value of breast milk is preserved throughout breastfeeding, according to studies. In addition, its make-up may shift as your child matures.
One study showed that breast milk's nutritional value remained relatively constant throughout the second year of life. Total protein levels are up while zinc and potassium are down. Its lactose, fat, iron, and potassium levels remained unchanged.
An further study indicated that breast milk with an age range of over a year had increased energy and fat contents, which may be beneficial to infants. "Breast milk's fat energy contribution to an infant's diet might be significant during prolonged lactation," the researchers said.
Immunity
antibodies and other immune-boosting substances that are found in breast milk. Immune protection from breast milk is beneficial for children of all ages.
Bonding
There are other ways to bond with your kid if you choose not to breastfeed, but any parent of a toddler will tell you that it is far more difficult to re-create the intimacy and cuddling of the newborn period once your child is mobile and exploring.
In fact, many mums and dads who breastfeed their kids claim that feeding time is the only quiet, uninterrupted time of day when they can truly bond with their little one.
Illness
Infants who are breastfed for longer periods of time experience fewer illnesses and shorter bouts of illness overall compared to their non-breastfed counterparts. As an added bonus, nursing is soothing for a sick baby and can help keep him or her from becoming dehydrated.
Security
Breastfeeding has a sedative effect. A toddler's ability to deal with anxiety and stress might be greatly enhanced by this. Even if your child develops a sense of independence and ventures out into the world, he will find solace in knowing that he can always come back to the security of nursing in your arms.
Comfort
Long-term breastfeeding makes your breasts the go-to comfort zone for your infant.
There are benefits and drawbacks to being the primary person your child turns to in times of distress. However, nursing is also a great way to calm your child and teach them to control their feelings.
Breastfed babies older than a year are described by their mothers as:
- A greater sense of emotional safety
- In better physical health
- Friendlier and warmer
- Higher in autonomy
- Helps alleviate suffering and anxiety more quickly
- More buoyant and jovial
Breastfeeding is a lovely and necessary part of being human. Breastfeeding is natural and healthy for mothers and infants even after the first year has passed. Therefore, breastfeeding should be maintained and promoted for as long as feasible. Your infant will be comfortable day and night with our wide selection of premium blankets for the nursery.
Do You Get Any Health Benefits From Breastfeeding, or Does It Only Help The Mother?
It's been said that the only person who benefits from prolonged nursing is the mother. It's not appropriate to continue once a kid hits a certain developmental milestone (such as when they start teething, eat solid foods, or start asking for milk).
Any parent who has tried to force their child to nurse knows that it rarely works. You can't compel a baby to nurse. Long-term breastfeeding can only work if both the infant and the mum are on board with the idea.
Parental and Infant Long-Term Health
Being a nurse has benefits that extend beyond the present moment. Both the mother and the infant can get long-term health benefits from prolonged nursing.
Babies
Breastfeeding for at least four months helps prevent allergy development in children with a family history of allergies.
When breastfeeding continues for longer than six months, it reduces the risk of childhood cancers like leukaemia and lymphoma, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. In addition to lowering the chance of getting type 1 and 2 diabetes, breastfeeding has other health benefits.
Baby-Feeding Mom or Dad
Breastfeeding has been shown to protect mothers from sickness and lower healthcare costs. Cancers of the breast and ovary, as well as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and heart attacks, are lowered.
When to Start Feeding Your Baby Solids
For the first year of life, your baby should primarily consume either breastmilk or infant formula. Medical experts advise nursing for at least two years. This includes continuing breastfeeding for at least the first two years and then gradually introducing acceptable family foods during the third year.
Signs that a baby is ready for solid food include:
- The time to start paying attention is at mealtimes.
- Make motions like you're saying "feed me too"
- Let them finish their meals without forcing anything out of their mouths (disappearance of the tongue-thrust reflex)
- Start sitting up straight and keeping their heads up.
- Discuss your baby's eating readiness with your maternity and child health nurse.
Is There Anything to Worry About When Breastfeeding for a Long Time?
Some families may benefit from the decision to breastfeed for a longer period of time, but this decision is often met with some trepidation and concern. Some of the most common worries voiced by parents who are thinking about nursing for a longer period of time are listed below.
Breastfeeding an older kid may have significant drawbacks, despite the fact that most mothers believe there are no negative aspects to nursing for an extended period of time.
- Intolerance from other people is something you could encounter.
- It's possible that you'll feel restrained.
- There is the risk of public embarrassment if an older youngster is not properly behaved.
- Sometimes it's just too much.
- Extended breastfeeding has been linked to marital and sexual difficulties.
- Time spent with your other kids may suffer as a result.
The Problem with Social Judgment
Extended breastfeeding isn't always accepted by the rest of society, that much is true. Many mothers continue breastfeeding their children well past the typical one-year mark, and some continue for two years or more.
Everyone who has breastfed a baby or young child knows how natural and comfortable breastfeeding is, but those who have never done it are quick to pass judgement.
The Recalcitrant Toddler
Even if you're ready to stop breastfeeding, your child may be resistant. The method you choose to take will be determined by your child's age. A baby can be weaned in a variety of ways.
It's important to discuss your nursing experience with your child if they're old enough to understand. Tell them you're going to pause and present some new activities to spend quality time together. If you are having trouble weaning or you think you might be having trouble weaning, you could always consult a specialist.
Approaching Negative Feedback
For many females, the social stigma associated with nursing for an extended period of time is the single biggest drawback to the profession. Breastfeeding a child can be met with a lot of disapproving stares and comments. Many mothers stop nursing their children in public once they reach a certain age because they feel embarrassed or ashamed.
It is fairly uncommon for women to go into "closet nursing," where they refuse to tell anyone about their breastfeeding habits. They would rather breastfeed in private than have to face the judgemental stares of loved ones. A local La Leche League International chapter or other community breastfeeding group would benefit from your perspective. It's a wonderful location to discover acceptance and the boost you need.
Substituting Positive Thinking for Negative Ones
Breastfeeding durations are increasing amongst women. Attitudes are shifting as a result of increased exposure to high-quality information and increased knowledge. Women who have breastfed and are returning to work or who nurse in public are protected by these laws. With any luck, as it becomes more commonplace in our culture, people's negative perceptions of it will gradually fade away, and acceptance will take their place.
When breastfeeding goes beyond infancy, how should I respond to criticism?
You and your baby should decide together how long you will breastfeed. Remind family, friends, and even random people that you have the last say on when to start weaning. Don't stress out over what other people will think of you. Rather, go with your gut.
Extending breastfeeding through the infant stage is a loving way to bond with your child. If you're considering continuing nursing through the infant stage, do what feels right for you and your child.
Setting Limits With Your Child
If you don't want to continue breastfeeding your child "on demand" as they become older, that's fine.
Having the desire to establish limits with your kid is very normal. There are toddlers whose primary desire is to continue nursing "all the time." Great if it helps (kids naturally grow out of it!). However, it's fine if you require time apart between meals.
Some mums and dads only feed their babies at night and during naps. Many others, however, do so just at specific periods during the day. While it's understandable that your child would be disturbed by your need to establish breastfeeding boundaries, remember that you need to prioritise your own mental health if you want this to work.
How About Overnight Nurse Shifts?
In fact, nighttime nursing is still a common request from toddlers. It's rather common, however it may come as a shock to some parents. If you find that feeding your baby at night helps, by all means, do so.
Otherwise, you can start the process of night weaning your child. Water, a back rub, or other calming methods can stand in for overnight sessions. If the baby will only nurse when the breastfeeding parent is around, the other parent may have to step in for a few nights.
If night weaning isn't successful, you might give it another go after a few months.
Exactly When Should You Begin Weaning?
When to begin weaning your child depends on you and your child. It's a deeply individual choice that no one but the individual or family can make. The "natural weaning age for humans" is thought to be between the ages of 2 and 7, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Typically, children wean themselves from breast milk between the ages of two and four. You can either wait for that time to come, or you can try some self-administered gentle weaning tactics, such as "don't offer, don't refuse," gradually shorter nursing sessions, or substituting snuggles or some other type of connection for nursing.
Conclusion
Extended breastfeeding refers to breastfeeding for more than a year, but the term "extended breastfeeding" gives the impression that continuing to nurse over the first year is exceptional. It is recommended for mothers to breastfeed their babies exclusively for the first six months, and then gradually introduce solid meals during the remainder of the first year. Breastmilk is the most important diet for infants, providing them with all the nutrients they need to grow and develop normally in the first six months of life. Prolonged breastfeeding is encouraged by most medical professionals and organisations for at least a year, and can have positive health and growth effects for children up to four years old. It is not true that milk loses its nutritional value or "turns to water" after a certain amount of time, as it is preserved throughout breastfeeding.
Breast milk has increased energy and fat contents, which may be beneficial to infants. It also has a sedative effect and can help calm and teach children to control their feelings. Breastfeeding is natural and healthy for mothers and infants, and should be maintained and promoted for as long as possible. It reduces the risk of childhood cancers, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and heart attacks. Breastfeeding an older child for a longer period of time can have drawbacks, such as intolerance from other people, public embarrassment, marital and sexual difficulties, and difficulty weaning.
Breastfeeding durations are increasing due to increased exposure to high-quality information and increased knowledge, and women who have breastfed and are returning to work or nursing in public are protected by laws. When to begin weaning depends on the individual and family, with the "natural weaning age" being between 2 and 7.
Content Summary
- To be honest, you probably don't know how long you'll be breastfeeding for when you first start.
- Once you get your rhythm, though, things really start to take off.
- As you and your baby settle into a nursing rhythm, your little one has mastered the latch.
- No doubt you have a lot of concerns when you think about continuing in nursing after the initial year.
- Extended breastfeeding refers to breastfeeding for more than a year.
- However, the term "extended breastfeeding" gives the impression that continuing to nurse over the first year is regarded exceptional.
- It's perfectly natural to breastfeed for more than a year, and in many cultures it's common for mothers to continue doing so for two, three, or even more years.
- After the first year, the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages continuing nursing for as long as mother and child desire.
- It is suggested that infants be breastfed exclusively for the first six months of life, and then to continue breastfeeding while also introducing solid foods until at least one year of age.
- Breastmilk Feeding After the First YearBreastmilk is the most important diet for infants since it provides them with all the nutrients they need to grow and develop normally in the first six months of life.
- Premature weaning from breast milk requires the use of infant formula.
- Well-Rounded DietWhen it comes to newborn nourishment, breast milk is tops.
- Breast milk is thought to have significant nutritional value for a child until at least the age of 2.Enhanced ResistanceThe cells, hormones, and antibodies in your breast milk will continue to strengthen your child's immune system as long as you nurse.
- A child may continue to consume a small amount of breast milk after the first year of life.
- It's best to consult your child's doctor if you have any concerns about your child's nutrition, including the potential role that breast milk may play in it.
- Extra-Long-Term BreastfeedingWhat is meant by "extended nursing" varies depending on who you ask, where you reside, and how long you've been breastfeeding your child.
- For some cultures, continuing breastfeeding well beyond the first year of life is the norm, therefore this practise isn't seen as "extended" at all.
- "Nursing your baby is encouraged by most medical professionals and organisations for at least a year.
- Having something prepared to present to loved ones about your decision to continue nursing can be beneficial.
- NutritionAmong the several milk options available, breast milk is the healthiest for your baby.
- One study showed that breast milk's nutritional value remained relatively constant throughout the second year of life.
- An further study indicated that breast milk with an age range of over a year had increased energy and fat contents, which may be beneficial to infants. "
- Immunityantibodies and other immune-boosting substances that are found in breast milk.
- Immune protection from breast milk is beneficial for children of all ages.
- BondingThere are other ways to bond with your kid if you choose not to breastfeed, but any parent of a toddler will tell you that it is far more difficult to re-create the intimacy and cuddling of the newborn period once your child is mobile and exploring.
- ComfortLong-term breastfeeding makes your breasts the go-to comfort zone for your infant.
- However, nursing is also a great way to calm your child and teach them to control their feelings.
- Therefore, breastfeeding should be maintained and promoted for as long as feasible.
- You can't compel a baby to nurse.
- Both the mother and the infant can get long-term health benefits from prolonged nursing.
- Medical experts advise nursing for at least two years.
- Some families may benefit from the decision to breastfeed for a longer period of time, but this decision is often met with some trepidation and concern.
- Some of the most common worries voiced by parents who are thinking about nursing for a longer period of time are listed below.
- Breastfeeding an older kid may have significant drawbacks, despite the fact that most mothers believe there are no negative aspects to nursing for an extended period of time.
- The method you choose to take will be determined by your child's age.
- It's important to discuss your nursing experience with your child if they're old enough to understand.
- It is fairly uncommon for women to go into "closet nursing," where they refuse to tell anyone about their breastfeeding habits.
- A local La Leche League International chapter or other community breastfeeding group would benefit from your perspective.
- Women who have breastfed and are returning to work or who nurse in public are protected by these laws.
- With any luck, as it becomes more commonplace in our culture, people's negative perceptions of it will gradually fade away, and acceptance will take their place.
- When breastfeeding goes beyond infancy, how should I respond to criticism?You and your baby should decide together how long you will breastfeed.
- Remind family, friends, and even random people that you have the last say on when to start weaning.
- Don't stress out over what other people will think of you.
- Rather, go with your gut.
- Extending breastfeeding through the infant stage is a loving way to bond with your child.
- If you're considering continuing nursing through the infant stage, do what feels right for you and your child.
- However, it's fine if you require time apart between meals.
- Some mums and dads only feed their babies at night and during naps.
- While it's understandable that your child would be disturbed by your need to establish breastfeeding boundaries, remember that you need to prioritise your own mental health if you want this to work.
- If you find that feeding your baby at night helps, by all means, do so.
- Otherwise, you can start the process of night weaning your child.
- If the baby will only nurse when the breastfeeding parent is around, the other parent may have to step in for a few nights.
- Exactly When Should You Begin Weaning?When to begin weaning your child depends on you and your child.
