Is breastfeeding a 7 year old normal?

Understanding Extended Breastfeeding
The topic of breastfeeding a child as old as seven years often sparks intense debate and varying opinions. While breastfeeding is universally recognized as the optimal source of nutrition for infants, the question of how long it should continue is more nuanced.
Cultural Perspectives and Practices
In many cultures, extended breastfeeding is not uncommon. Anthropologist Barbara J. King highlights that breastfeeding beyond infancy can be beneficial, both nutritionally and emotionally. In some societies, it is customary for mothers to breastfeed their children well into their early childhood years, sometimes even until the age of five or beyond. This practice is often rooted in cultural beliefs about child-rearing and the nurturing bond between mother and child.
Health Recommendations
Health organizations generally recommend breastfeeding for at least the first year of a child’s life, with many suggesting that it can continue for two years or more, depending on the needs of both mother and child. The World Health Organization supports breastfeeding until the age of two or beyond, emphasizing that the decision to continue breastfeeding should be made by the mother and child together.
Benefits of Extended Breastfeeding
Proponents of extended breastfeeding argue that it provides ongoing nutritional benefits and emotional security for the child. Breast milk continues to offer essential nutrients and antibodies that can support a child’s immune system, even as they grow older. Additionally, the act of breastfeeding can foster a strong emotional connection, which some parents find valuable as their children navigate the complexities of early childhood and beyond.
Social Reactions and Stigmas
Despite the potential benefits, breastfeeding a seven-year-old can provoke strong reactions from society. Many people may view it as unusual or inappropriate, leading to stigma and criticism for mothers who choose to continue breastfeeding at this age. This societal pressure can create a challenging environment for those who advocate for extended breastfeeding, as they may feel judged or misunderstood.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while breastfeeding a seven-year-old may not align with mainstream practices in many Western cultures, it is not inherently abnormal or harmful. The decision to breastfeed at this age is deeply personal and can be influenced by cultural norms, individual circumstances, and the unique relationship between mother and child. Ultimately, the choice should be respected as part of a broader conversation about parenting and child development.

At what age is it inappropriate to breastfeed?

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend continued breastfeeding along with introducing appropriate complementary foods for up to 2 years or longer.

Can I breastfeed my 12 year old son?

Meanwhile, the American Academy of Pediatrics ‘supports continued breastfeeding, along with appropriate complementary foods introduced at about 6 months, as long as mutually desired by mother and child for 2 years or beyond. ‘

How long is too long to breastfeed?

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.

What is the longest age to breastfeed?

In the US, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life and to continue for at least 12 months5. But in other countries, the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding up to the age of 2 or beyond6.

What happens if galactorrhea is left untreated?

Galactorrhea is not a life-threatening condition. If the causative factors are treated, it goes away on its own. However, it may be the cause of amenorrhea, infertility, and osteoporosis if left untreated and that requires medical attention.

What is the oldest a child should breastfeed?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, and then breastfeeding in combination with solid foods until the age of 2 or beyond.

Is it normal to still have breast milk after 7 years?

It usually takes several weeks for your breasts to completely stop producing milk after you stop breastfeeding. Some women continue to produce milk up to 2 years after they have stopped breastfeeding. Contact your GP if you’ve stopped breastfeeding and: you’re still producing a lot of milk.

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.

Is it okay to breastfeed a 7 year old?

Absolutely not!!! By this age the nutritional value of breast milk is not enough for an older child, they are using it as a comfort and won’t actually serve the child’s development in the long run. In fact most of the time children aren’t weaned at an appropriate time…

Is it normal to still breastfeed at 7?

There’s no set period of time by which you need to wean your child. Doing so is a very personal decision that each family has to make on their own. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) writes that 2–7 years old is the estimated “natural weaning age for humans.”