Hi Imperfect Mums
With my Baby now to turn 2, I thought it be time to stop breastfeeding. I haven't seem to be able to wean him off and have tried to cut him off during the day but it hasn't worked out. Though he is good with his solids he still likes the comfort and the milk from me. I know it will be a hard time for him having this cut from him cold turkey but I do not see any way. Does any mummies have any advice for me on this topic, also like how will my body react with stopping feeding. He also seems to still go off to sleep while on the breast and I know I have been lazy with not implementing other ways to get him to sleep, so any advice on how to get him to sleep. I'm a pretty soft mother to my son in regards to affection but tough when he is naughty, so I don't think crying it out will work for me.
Cutting Breastfeeding Cold Turkey
Cutting Breastfeeding Cold Turkey
Posted in:
Baby & Toddler, Milestones, Baby Feeding
2 Replies
He will cry if you go cold turkey, might not cry as long as you think though. Perhaps let your partner take over the bedtime routine until it's established. My boobs got a little sore but if you bandage them when you stop it helps. Also the bandage stops it being easy to give in and feed!
Might be better to cut down gradually. I used a countdown method (told her she could feed to the count of ten then done) coupled with a "don't offer, don't refuse" approach. It took time but later I could distract her when she asked and say "after lunch" or "wait till I've finished doing this job" etc. Often she'd forget.
Stopping suddenly probably will be worse for you than it will be for him -there is engorgement, and hormonal issues with going cold turkey. Many women find themselves very emotional and moody after weaning (hormones go out of whack) so cutting down slowly is good for reducing this risk.