Breastfeeding has many benefits for both parent and baby, which is why the timeline for how long to continue can look different for every family. Every baby is unique, and their feeding needs can vary depending on a range of factors.
From the perfectly balanced nutrients in breast milk that support healthy development to the deep emotional connection it fosters between parent and child, breastfeeding plays an important role in the early months of life. And these are just a few of the many reasons families choose it. If you’d like to learn more about the benefits, we’ve put together some helpful insights in this article.
Therefore, the question of “how long should I breastfeed?” is not as straightforward as it might seem. At the end of the day, it is a personal decision, guided by what feels right for both you and your baby. If you are looking for more clarity on what’s typical or what to expect, read on for a closer look at breastfeeding timelines.
How long should you breastfeed?
The World Health Organization recommends that babies be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months. After that, breastfeeding can continue alongside solid foods for up to 2 years or even longer, depending on what works best for you and your baby.
Around six months, it’s important to start introducing nutrient-rich foods, particularly those high in protein, iron, and zinc, as your baby’s nutritional needs begin to change. However, breast milk should still remain a primary source of nutrition during this period. You can read more about how and when to introduce solid foods in our week-by-week development guide.
Of course, breastfeeding timelines vary widely around the world and from one family to the next. Some parents breastfeed for a few months, others for several years. Whatever you choose, trust that you’ll know what’s right for you and your baby.
Why some parents stop breastfeeding
Deciding to stop breastfeeding, also known as weaning, is a very personal decision. Sometimes it happens naturally over time, and other times it happens sooner than expected. Whatever your situation, it’s okay to do what feels right for you and your baby so long as they still get the nutrition they need.
Here are some common reasons parents decide to stop:
- Feeling overwhelmed or mentally drained: breastfeeding can be both physically demanding and emotionally tough. If you’re struggling with things like low milk supply, painful feeds, or not meeting your breastfeeding goals, it’s completely understandable to feel exhausted or discouraged.
- Baby prefers bottle-feeding: Some babies take to bottles more easily. Bottles tend to release milk faster and more steadily, which some babies find easier than breastfeeding.
- Low milk supply: There are many reasons milk supply might be low. Perhaps infrequent feeds, certain health conditions, or past surgeries. If your baby isn’t getting enough milk, that alone can make breastfeeding extra stressful.
- Pain or discomfort: Breastfeeding can be uncomfortable in the early days, especially if you're experiencing sore nipples, cracked skin, or breast pain. These issues are often linked to latch or positioning, and sometimes a nursing pillow can help make things easier. But even with support, it's completely understandable if the discomfort makes you think about stopping.
- Returning to work: Heading back to work can be a big shift. Some parents decide to wean when they return, but it’s not the only option. You can also pump and store milk or switch to formula during the day if that works better for your schedule.
- Pregnant again: If you’re pregnant while still breastfeeding, it can make you feel more tired or emotional, and that might affect your feeding routine. Some choose to continue breastfeeding, while others decide to stop.
- Time constraints: Breastfeeding takes a lot of time upfront, especially in the first few weeks. While it often gets easier with time, some families find it still doesn’t fit their daily rhythm, and that’s okay.
- Taking medication: Although most medications are safe while breastfeeding, some parents decide to stop as a precaution. Always speak with your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
- Just because you want to: At the end of the day, it’s perfectly okay to stop breastfeeding simply because it feels right for you.
Stopping breastfeeding gradually
There is no single way to stop breastfeeding, and what works for one family may not feel right for another. For many parents and babies, weaning happens slowly and naturally, often because the baby starts eating more solid foods and doesn’t breastfeed as often.
It’s good to remember that solid food should not replace breast milk completely at first. Babies often breastfeed for comfort as well as nourishment, and breast milk can actually support their digestion as they try new foods for the first time.
Taking it slow can help you and your baby adjust emotionally and physically. Gradual weaning gives your body time to reduce milk production without becoming overly full or uncomfortable, and it lowers the risk of any issues like engorgement or mastitis. It also gives your baby the comfort and closeness they’re still used to while easing into this new stage.
Steps to stop
The most gentle way to stop breastfeeding is to drop one feed at a time. There is no set rule for which feed to drop first. It often depends on what works best for you and your baby. Some parents choose to keep night feeds for a while longer to offer comfort and closeness during sleep.
If your baby is under one year old, you will need to replace any dropped breastfeeds with infant formula to make sure they are still getting the nutrition they need. Once your child is over one year and eating a variety of foods and drinking other fluids, they usually do not need a replacement feed.
Once you and your baby are comfortable with one less feed, you can begin to drop another. This process looks different for every family. Some wean quite quickly while others take more time. Fully stopping breastfeeding can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Taking it slowly helps your body adjust and gives your baby time to get used to the changes in a calm and steady way.
What to expect as you are weaning
Just like any big transition, weaning can bring both physical and emotional challenges for both you and your baby. It’s a significant step, and it’s normal for it to feel a little up and down at times.
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Emotional changes: Weaning can stir up a mix of emotions. For your little one, breastfeeding has been more than just a way to eat, it’s been a source of comfort, closeness, and security. Losing that familiar bonding time can be hard, and they might need extra comfort as they adjust. For parents, weaning can also bring on unexpected feelings like sadness, guilt, or even relief. You may miss the closeness of breastfeeding or feel unsure about whether the timing is right. Hormonal shifts during this time can also affect your mood and energy levels, making these feelings even more intense. All of it is completely valid and very common.
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Physical changes: Your body will also go through changes as you wean. At first, your breasts might feel full, tender, or even uncomfortable if your baby isn’t nursing as often. This is your body adjusting to producing less milk. Gradually, your milk supply will decrease, and any discomfort should ease.Over time, your breasts may return to a size and feel more like they did before pregnancy. Everyone's experience is different. Some may welcome the changes, while others might find them physically or emotionally challenging.
Should you pump while weaning?
As you begin weaning, it is common for your breasts to feel full or uncomfortable. Gently pumping or hand expressing a small amount of milk can help relieve that pressure. However, it is important not to fully empty your breasts, as that tells your body to keep making more milk. The goal is just to ease the discomfort. You can also use cold compresses or pain relievers if needed to help with any soreness.
What if your child does not want to stop breastfeeding?
Sometimes, even if you are ready to stop breastfeeding, your child may not feel the same way. This is completely normal, especially if breastfeeding has been a strong source of comfort and connection for them.How you approach weaning depends on your child’s age and stage of development.
If your child is still young and not yet comfortable with a bottle, sippy cup, or straw cup, it is important to focus on helping them get used to these alternatives first. This ensures they are still getting the nutrition and fluids they need once breastfeeding is reduced.
For older toddlers who can understand more, you can try explaining what is happening in a comforting way. Let them know that breastfeeding is going to stop soon, and talk about other things you can do together like storytime, or extra cuddles. The goal is to keep the bonding strong but in a new way.
Overall, babies and toddlers often need time to adjust, and a gentle, gradual process usually works best. However, if you are finding the process particularly emotional or difficult, for you or your child, it can help to speak with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant. They can offer guidance tailored to your situation and support both of you through the transition.
Restarting breastfeeding after stopping
Yes, it is possible to restart breastfeeding after stopping, and many parents try this for a variety of reasons. It’s called relactation. While not everyone will be able to produce a full milk supply again, some breast milk is still beneficial and no small feat.
How much milk you can make depends on factors like how long it has been since you stopped and how well your milk supply was established before. Restarting can take time, patience, and consistency.
To encourage your body to start making milk again, try:
- Offering the breast to your baby often
- Expressing or pumping regularly to stimulate milk production
- Spending time skin-to-skin with your baby to boost bonding and milk hormones
If you are thinking about restarting, a midwife or lactation consultant can guide and support you every step of the way.
