How long do pediatricians recommend breastfeeding?

Recommendations for Breastfeeding Duration
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers. The recommendations regarding how long mothers should breastfeed have evolved, reflecting ongoing research and understanding of its advantages.
Exclusive Breastfeeding for the First Six Months
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) both recommend 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 additional foods or liquids, except for necessary medications or supplements. This exclusive breastfeeding is crucial for optimal growth, development, and health, as breast milk provides essential nutrients that formula cannot fully replicate.
Continuation with Solid Foods
After the initial six months, the AAP advises that breastfeeding should continue while gradually introducing solid foods into the infant’s diet. This transition is important as it helps the baby adapt to new textures and flavors while still benefiting from the nutritional advantages of breast milk.
Extended Breastfeeding Recommendations
In a significant update to its guidelines, the AAP now encourages breastfeeding for two years or more, as long as it is mutually desired by both the mother and the child. This marks a shift from previous recommendations, which suggested breastfeeding for at least one year. The extended duration is supported by evidence that prolonged breastfeeding continues to provide health benefits, including enhanced immunity and emotional bonding between mother and child.
Conclusion
In summary, pediatricians recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside solid foods for at least two years or longer if both mother and child wish to continue. This guidance underscores the importance of breastfeeding as a vital component of infant health and development, promoting both physical and emotional well-being.

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.

When do most moms stop 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 is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

These increases occur around the same time for all babies, hence the term “3-months breastfeeding crisis”. This crisis is the most well-known because it is the most challenging for mothers. One reason is that this crisis, unlike others you may experience before, can last up to a month.

Is it OK to exclusively breastfeed for 2 years?

AAP recommends that moms breastfeed exclusively for the baby’s first six months and introduce other appropriate foods at that point. Moms can continue breastfeeding until the child turns 2 or even beyond if desired.

What is the healthiest age to stop breastfeeding?

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.

Why does AAP recommend breastfeeding for 2 years?

There are continued benefits from breastfeeding beyond 1 year, and up to 2 years especially for the breastfeeding parent’s health. This includes protection against diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancers of the breast and ovaries.

What percentage of moms breastfeed for 2 years?

While 71% of women continue to breastfeed their infant for at least one year, by two years of age, breastfeeding rates decline to 45%.

At what age is breastfeeding no longer beneficial to child?

Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond. Babies show they are ready to start solids when they: start showing interest when others are eating.

How long do doctors recommend breastfeeding?

Experts recommend that babies be breastfed exclusively (without formula, water, juice, non–breast milk, or food) for the first 6 months. Then, they recommend continuing to breastfeed for 2 years (and beyond) if it works for you and your baby. Any length of time your baby can be breastfed is beneficial.

When do pediatricians recommend stopping breastfeeding?

The AAP recommends mothers breastfeed (or use pumped milk) until 12 months. After 12 months, they recommend continued nursing “if you and your baby desire it”. The AAP does not recommend an upper age limit for weaning from breastfeeding.