Our findings indicate that the major reasons why mothers stop breastfeeding before they desire include concerns about maternal or child health (infant nutrition, maternal illness or the need for medicine, and infant illness) and processes associated with breastfeeding (lactation and milk-pumping problems).
It is up to you and your baby to decide when the time is right to stop breastfeeding. Aim to breastfeed for 6 months, then gradually introduce appropriate foods in the second 6 months while continuing to breastfeed. Breastfeeding even for a short time is beneficial.
Going back to work is a very common reason why committed breastfeeding mothers have to stop. Breast pumping at work is time-intensive and very boring. Generally, women end up locking themselves in a closet somewhere during their lunch hour.
By 3 months postpartum hormone levels have leveled out making frequent breast stimulation and milk removal even more important. It is also true that our bodies are more efficient at producing milk and no longer need to store large amounts of breast milk between feedings or pumping sessions.
3 Months CRISIS:
This is the most common time for mothers to give up on breastfeeding, as its a very challenging time. Some babies will have it at 4 months, specially boys. Why: There are a lot of changes in both the mum and the baby. The baby goes through a maturing phase, the brain is developing neuronal connections.
Some women also experience engorgement or cluster feeding. Poor attachment, "not enough breastmilk for the child", and an unsettled baby were the top reasons for ceasing to breastfeed cited in the Australian national infant feeding survey (by parents who stopped breastfeeding entirely before 6 months).
Mothers should be encouraged to breastfeed their children for at least 1 year. The longer an infant is breastfed, the greater the protection from certain illnesses and long-term diseases.
You Might Be Surprised By Your Emotions
Even for those who are happy to be done breastfeeding or pumping, the days after weaning can be an emotional time. Some mamas feel tearful, sad or mildly depressed after their baby is done nursing. Others may feel irritable, anxious or moody.
3 to 4 Months
Babies who are breastfed have a 36% lower risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) which peaks at 2-4 months of age. Your baby's immunities are lowest between 2 to 6 months of age. By breastfeeding, you are providing him the best protection during this vulnerable time.
Of course, it's up to you how long you want to breastfeed—one month or one year or more. The key is to wean when you and your baby are ready.
Thanks to biological and behavioral changes, it's totally normal to gain weight when you stop breastfeeding. "It's really common that women will stop breastfeeding and their weight goes up," G. Thomas Ruiz, M.D., an ob/gyn at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California, tells SELF.
You will burn some stored body fat, but your body protects some fat for the purpose of breastfeeding. Many women don't lose all the baby weight until they completely stop nursing.
There is no general rule around breastfeeding frequency that leads to the return of fertility. Abrupt changes in breastfeeding generally brings back fertility quicker. Keep in mind that you and your baby would have to be ready for this change. Suddenly stopping breastfeeding can impact the bond your baby is enjoying.
Infant formula is still a healthy choice, and your baby will get all the necessary nutrients. If you choose to feed your baby formula, there are some benefits: Anyone can feed your baby. Grandparents or babysitters can feed your baby while you work or get some well-deserved time with your partner.
Breastfeeding, even just once a day, is worth it.
Your body is regulating your hormones and your endocrine system with stimulation. Second, the baby receives that contact, that transfer of energy from the parent, and being skin to skin continues to support heart rate, respiration, glucose levels and temperature.
The World Health Organization recommends that all babies are exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of their life, and from 6 months babies should start eating solid foods as well as being breastfed for up to 2 years or longer.
Continuing to breastfeed after six months is proven to lower the chances of childhood and adult illnesses and, if your baby does get ill, helps him recover more quickly. And the longer you continue, the longer the protection lasts.
Best Baby Formula Most Like Breast Milk
Enfamil's Enspire is the brand's closest formula to breast milk, thanks to the inclusion of proteins found in colostrum, like lactoferrin. (In fact, Enspire is the first and only infant formula in the U.S. to include lactoferrin as an ingredient, according to the brand.)
Calcium-rich dried fruits like figs, apricots, and dates are also thought to help with milk production. Take note: apricots also contain tryptophan. Salmon, sardines, herring, anchovies, trout, mackerel and tuna are great sources of essential fatty acids and omega- 3 fatty acids.
Focus on making healthy choices to help fuel your milk production. Opt for protein-rich foods, such as lean meat, eggs, dairy, beans, lentils and seafood low in mercury. Choose a variety of whole grains as well as fruits and vegetables.
The best way to lose weight once you stop nursing
Just adjust your diet and exercise habits to ensure you burn calories. Set a cut-off period and make some serious changes to your diet and routine. These are a few pointers — replace carbs like rice and maida with complex carbs and multigrain items.
To help you in losing weight while breastfeeding, try to work yourself up to 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, which is about 20 to 30 minutes a day of walking. You can also resume things like yoga or tai chi, especially if you were practicing before baby.