Have you been breastfeeding for a while, and although have (mostly) loved it, feel torn between continuing and weaning?  I sooo feel you!  (Scroll to the bottom to watch the video version)

 

Weaning can happen spontaneously when the baby/child decides – child-led weaning.

 

This happened with my first born, purely because at 10 months old he discovered food and I was very depleted with little breastmilk to offer him by that point.  I had lost a lot of weight, and wasn’t nourishing myself.  At all. 

 

Weaning can happen because of breastfeeding issues and challenges also and if you aren’t ready, it can take a good cry to release that grief. 

 

Then there’s the weaning that you know you just need to do, mostly because it’s starting to feel more annoying than joyful.  But the decision to do that can be soooo hard! 

 

Here’s one thing I used to do when I’d – finally – made that decision to wean.

 

I’d pick a date, about 2 weeks forward.  Then with each breastfeed from the moment I made the decision, I would simply say once or twice  “The la-la (our word for breastmilk) is going away soon”.

 

My babies were 2 or just over when I’d wean (except my first one), so they totally understood.

 

Not only that, they can feel the energy from you.  They can totally feel when you’re over it, and when it’s joyful. 

 

The key is to make that definite decision – and yes, you still might have a moment of wavering (I had plenty, especially with the last baby), however if you know it’s time, it’s a clean decision and you’ve given yourself a date.

 

By telling your little one what is coming, is being loving and respectful.  Then on that last day, where you both might have a cry together, say Thankyou to your little one, Thankyou to your breasts with your little one, and Thankyou to all the lovely milk over this time.  There’s no more la-la now, it’s all gone.

 

You can also start showing this weeks before with a cup of water. When they drink the water, hold the cup up and tip it saying “It’s all gone” so they understand it’s empty.

 

Your little one may cry for the breastmilk for a few days, but I often found after the 3rd day they were mostly accepting of it. 

 

It pulls at your heart strings mama, I know.  But also trust your feelings. 

 

They will feel your decision.  They are ok. 

 

Just a note, it is highly recommended by WHO to breastfeed for 2 years + if possible.  However, if your baby is under 12 months old and you wish to or need to wean then speak with a Lactation consultant for suggestions. 

 

Sometimes you may be able to access a milk bank which is screened breast milk from other healthy mothers who donate their breast milk.  There’s most likely a fee involved, but a great option.

 

Then there’s the dairy v’s non-dairy formula options.  Goats milk, soy, and now a new plant-based vegan range are available – all which have their pro’s and con’s.  You will need to do your research and feel what is best, and also see what your baby likes.

 

So, good luck mama, and remember, if you’re feeling like you have to wean because of any pain you’re having or other challenges, before you make the decision to wean make sure you reach out to a breastfeeding support person, like myself, or a board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC).

 

Blessings Mama

Tara