Women are breastfeeding longer these days, thanks to information about the benefits of extended breastfeeding becoming widespread. Once you've decided to breastfeed, the next question is often how long you should continue to do so. The decision about when to wean is a personal one that should be made after you have learned as much as possible about the pros and cons. It also depends on your comfort level.
Benefits of Extended Breastfeeding
Extended breastfeeding is defined as nursing beyond one year. Children older than one are getting most of their calories and nutrition from solid food. Since your child no longer needs breast milk for sustenance, extended breastfeeding can provide your child with vitamins and enzymes which he may not be getting from his diet. Another benefit of extended breastfeeding is an increased IQ. This is a benefit of breastfeeding at any age, and the benefit only increases the longer you breastfeed. Extended breastfeeding is also thought to prevent diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and central nervous system diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
Extended breastfeeding can also continue the bond that you have been sharing with your child and may be reluctant to give up. It can provide a feeling of security for your child as she gets older. Some people believe that extended breastfeeding may interfere with a child's independence, but studies have shown the opposite to be true.
Disadvantages of Extended Breastfeeding
Your period may be delayed or irregular if you practice extended breastfeeding. This can be good if you'd like to have a few more months tampon-free. If, on the other hand, you're trying to get pregnant, the lack of a period or regular period may cause difficulty in conceiving another child.
Another downside to extended breastfeeding is the comments and stares that you may have to deal with from family, friends, and even strangers. Many people believe there should be a cut-off age for breastfeeding and may find it disturbing to see a nursing toddler. If you decide to breastfeed past a year, try not to let the opinions of others bother you.
Weaning a child over the age of one can be more difficult. Your child may also want to nurse when he's bored or wants your attention.
Extended Breastfeeding Tips
You can avoid unwanted looks and comments from people by breastfeeding at home. Setting aside a certain time of day to nurse can help you to breastfeed at home and also prevent your child from using nursing as a time-killer or way to get your attention.
If people do make comments about your choice to continue breastfeeding, explain your reason for doing so. Many people make their judgment based on what they think is "acceptable" by today's standards. Always do what you think is best for your child.
 | Most new mothers need some breastfeeding tips--even though it seems natural, it can take practice to get it down. |
 | No need to worry if you want to know how to stop breastfeeding. There are many reasons why nursing ends; ideally, it happens because both mother and child are ready to wean. |
 | Weaning from breast to cow's milk can be both freeing and emotional for moms, as well as babies. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breastfed until the age of one, although sometimes this isn't possible. |
Learn how to follow a breastfeeding diet that will keep you hydrated and help keep hunger at bay. |
As a new mother who is nursing, you undoubtedly have questions about storing breast milk. Breast milk is the healthiest thing you can feed a child, and proper storage is essential for providing the best possible milk. |
