At what age should you stop breastfeeding?

The Age to Stop Breastfeeding: A Personal and Expert Perspective
The question of when to stop breastfeeding is not merely a matter of age; it is a deeply personal decision influenced by various factors, including health recommendations, the mother’s circumstances, and the child’s needs. While there is no universally “right” age to wean, health organizations provide guidelines that can help parents navigate this complex decision.
Health Recommendations
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities, it is recommended that infants be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life. This means that during this period, babies should receive only breast milk, with no other foods or liquids introduced. Following this initial phase, breastfeeding can continue alongside the introduction of appropriate solid foods, ideally until the child is at least two years old or beyond.
The rationale behind these recommendations is grounded in the nutritional benefits of breast milk, which provides essential nutrients and antibodies that support a child’s immune system and overall health. The gradual introduction of solids after six months allows for a balanced diet while still benefiting from the advantages of breastfeeding.
Individual Circumstances and Weaning
The decision to stop breastfeeding often varies from one family to another. Some mothers may choose to wean their children earlier due to personal circumstances, such as returning to work or health issues. Others may find that their child naturally begins to wean themselves, typically between nine months and two years. This self-weaning process can be a sign that the child is ready to transition to other forms of nutrition.
It’s important to note that while health professionals advocate for breastfeeding until at least two years, many cultures around the world practice extended breastfeeding, sometimes well into the toddler years. This cultural context can significantly influence a family’s decision on when to stop.
Emotional and Psychological Factors
The emotional bond formed during breastfeeding is another critical aspect to consider. For many mothers and children, breastfeeding is not just about nutrition; it is also a source of comfort and connection. As such, the decision to wean can evoke a range of emotions, and it is essential for parents to approach this transition with sensitivity and care.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the age at which to stop breastfeeding is a nuanced decision that should take into account health guidelines, personal circumstances, and the emotional needs of both mother and child. While the general recommendation is to breastfeed for at least the first two years, the right time to wean will vary for each family. Engaging with healthcare professionals can provide additional support and guidance tailored to individual situations, ensuring that both mother and child can navigate this transition smoothly.

Is it normal to still breastfeed a 5 year old?

Yes, breastfeeding a child past 5 is acceptable. Most will naturally wean before this point, but there is nothing wrong with continuing as long as the child and mother want to.

At what age is breastfeeding no longer beneficial?

There are many professional associations that recommend breastfeeding beyond 1 year, but to date there is no evidence that extended breastfeeding is harmful in any way. There is currently no known age when breastmilk is considered to be nutritionally insignificant for a child.

Will I gain weight after stopping breastfeeding?

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.

What is the healthiest age to stop breastfeeding?

The World Health Organization recommends that all babies be exclusively breastfed for 6 months, then gradually introduced to appropriate foods after 6 months while continuing to breastfeed for 2 years or beyond. Stopping breastfeeding is called weaning. It is up to you and your baby to decide when the time is right.

What is the average age to stop breastfeeding?

As the AAFP notes, according to anthropological data, the natural age of self-weaning (meaning weaning determined strictly by the child) is about 2.5–7 years old. Obviously, not everyone wants to nurse that long, but it’s nice to know it’s an option that’s normal and actually pretty common all over the world.

When do most moms quit breastfeeding?

But although 96% of children are breastfed soon after birth, only 15% of mums are still breastfeeding exclusively 5 months later. So, what’s preventing some parents from continuing to breastfeed, and how can they persist with longer-term breastfeeding, if that’s their wish?

What are the negative effects of breastfeeding too long?

For example, duration of breastfeeding experience has been shown to correlate negatively with parent-reported antisocial and aggressive behavior in children from 4 to 11 years of age [43]. These effects on antisocial behavior appear to extend well beyond childhood into adulthood.

Will I lose weight after I stop breastfeeding?

It’s normal to store extra fat during pregnancy to be used up while breastfeeding. Mothers vary in when they lose this extra weight. For some it is in the early weeks, some later and for others it’s not until after they have stopped breastfeeding.

Can you breastfeed for 10 years?

As long as a child receives adequate complementary foods, there are no medical drawbacks to breastfeeding beyond the age of 1 year. However, people may face obstacles to nursing, especially if they do not have family or social support.

What is the oldest a child has been breastfed?

A British mother has revealed how she will miss breastfeeding her daughter after the youngster finally weaned – at age 9. Sharon Spink, a mom of four, insisted that feeding daughter Charlotte until earlier this year was completely normal and has cemented a lifelong bond between them.