Weaning Methods: How and When?

Breastfeeding is one of the most special and comforting bonds between a mother and her baby. This process creates a unique sense of closeness and trust for both the mother and the baby. However, as the baby grows, weaning becomes inevitable. So, how should the weaning process take place? How do you know the right time?

When Should a Baby Stop Breastfeeding?

The short answer is; when both the mother and the baby are ready. Experts state that weaning around the age of 2 is appropriate. Especially in the first six months, breast milk meets all the nutritional needs of the baby. However, it generally starts losing its nutritional value from the age of 2-2.5. Breast milk is no longer the baby's primary source of nutrition. Instead, complementary foods come to the fore.

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What Can Happen During the Breastfeeding Process After The Age of 2?

-Decreased Intake of Complementary Foods: Prolonging the breastfeeding process too much can prevent the baby from getting enough complementary foods. Therefore, the baby may be deprived of various nutrients necessary for healthy growth and development.

-Effect on Chewing Reflexes: During the complementary feeding period, babies may eat little or nothing due to loss of appetite on some days. Instead, they frequently turn to breast milk. This situation may weaken the baby's chewing reflexes.

-Maternal Fatigue: Especially night feedings can disrupt the mother's sleep pattern, causing fatigue. This situation can be even more challenging for working mothers.

Baby's Detachment from the Breast

Some babies may naturally lose interest in the breast after the age of 2. During this period, when they start to interact more with their environment, their sucking desires may decrease. This situation will facilitate the weaning process for the mother.

Weaning Methods: Sudden or Gradual?

-Sudden Weaning: In this method, breastfeeding is stopped abruptly. However, this situation is difficult for both the mother and the baby. The mother may experience physical and emotional strain. In addition, milk accumulation in the breast can cause blockage or cysts. Moreover, sudden weaning can cause trauma in the baby.

-Gradual Weaning: In this method recommended by experts, the mother gradually reduces the frequency and duration of breastfeeding. This method provides a less stressful transition for both the mother and the baby.

Points to Consider in the Gradual Weaning Process:

-Choose the Right Time: Do not start this process during stressful periods such as moving, potty training, or teething.

-Talk to Your Baby: Tell them that they are growing up and that older children no longer breastfeed. Babies can understand what is said.

-Reduce Breastfeeding Frequency: Start reducing daytime feedings. In the first few days, start by reducing one feeding. Continue like this for a while. If they insist too much, breastfeed but keep it short.

-Distract Them: To make them forget about sucking, direct your baby's attention to toys or activities such as going to the park.

-Show Love and Affection: While weaning your baby, show them more attention and affection.

-Leave Night Feedings to the End: Breaking this habit can be more difficult for babies who fall asleep while breastfeeding at night. Therefore, save this for the end of the process.

-Ask for Help: So, what to do at night while weaning the baby? It would be better if someone else, such as the father, grandmother, or baby caregiver , takes care of your baby when they cry at night.

-Applying Bitter Substances, Applying Band-Aids: Avoid methods that can make the process negative and stressful. This situation can cause disappointment in your baby.

-Offer Alternative Snacks: At the feeding time you want to skip, prepare healthy snacks suitable for your baby's age and distract them.

-Ways to Reduce Sucking Desire: During the weaning process, you can limit direct contact with the breast. Your baby seeing the breast will also arouse the desire to suck.

Mother and Baby Readiness

Some mothers may not feel ready to end the special bond they have established with their babies during breastfeeding. In such a situation, it would be beneficial to consult a specialist. In the weaning process, it is important that both the mother and the baby are ready. Because when the mother tries to stop breastfeeding without feeling ready, she may feel anxious. On the other hand, if the baby cries insistently every time, they are not ready yet either. In this case, it would be appropriate to postpone the process a little and wait for the right time.

How Many Days Will The Baby Forget The Breast?

The answer to the question depends on the baby and the mother, just like the weaning process. In other words, it varies depending on both the baby's temperament, age, sucking habits and how the mother manages the process.

The most appropriate approach to weaning methods and time may vary for each mother and baby. The important thing is to approach with patience and compassion. As Lamer Consulting , we are with mothers with our experienced caregivers who have passed security and reference checks. You can reach us from the phone numbers on our contact page, or you can fill out the form for our consultants to call you.

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Weaning Methods: How and When?

When Should a Baby Stop Breastfeeding?

2-Year-Old Sleep Regression

What Can Happen During the Breastfeeding Process After The Age of 2?

Baby's Detachment from the Breast

Weaning Methods: Sudden or Gradual?

Points to Consider in the Gradual Weaning Process:

Mother and Baby Readiness

How Many Days Will The Baby Forget The Breast?

Call or Send a Message Now,
Get the Support You Need in a Fast and Reliable Way

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Weaning Methods: How and When?

When Should a Baby Stop Breastfeeding?

What Can Happen During the Breastfeeding Process After The Age of 2?

Baby's Detachment from the Breast

Weaning Methods: Sudden or Gradual?

Points to Consider in the Gradual Weaning Process:

Mother and Baby Readiness

How Many Days Will The Baby Forget The Breast?

Call or Send a Message Now, Get the Support You Need in a Fast and Reliable Way

Quick Menu

Our Services

Call or Send a Message Now,
Get the Support You Need in a Fast and Reliable Way