#asktheexpert
i am planning to wean off my daughter is it the correct time?

Question

#asktheexpert 
i am planning to wean off my daughter is it the correct time?

Accepted Answer

Weaning is a personal decision and depends on both you and your child's needs. Typically, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months of life, with continued breastfeeding along with complementary foods for up to 2 years or beyond.

If your daughter is around 12 months old or older, many parents start to introduce more solid foods and gradually reduce breastfeeding sessions. Here are some points to consider when deciding whether it's the right time to wean:

Age: If your daughter is over 6 months, it’s a good time to start introducing solids, and at 1 year, you can begin to gradually reduce breastfeeding if both you and your baby are ready.

Nutritional Needs: At 12 months, babies can transition to cow’s milk or formula (if you’re not breastfeeding) and begin eating a wide variety of solids. Make sure she is eating a balanced diet with all the necessary nutrients, including iron, vitamins, and proteins.

Your Readiness: Weaning should feel comfortable for you as well. Some mothers feel ready to stop breastfeeding when their child is older, while others prefer to continue longer. The process can take time, and you can slowly replace breastfeeding with other fluids and meals.

Your Daughter’s Readiness: Some babies may show signs of readiness to wean, such as becoming less interested in breastfeeding or preferring other foods and drinks. However, other babies may be emotionally attached to breastfeeding, and it may take time for them to adjust to weaning.

Gradual Process: If you do decide to wean, it’s often best to do it gradually, reducing the number of breastfeeding sessions and replacing them with other forms of nutrition, such as milk, formula, or solid foods.

Ultimately, there’s no perfect "right" time—it's about what feels best for you and your daughter. You can also consult your pediatrician for personalized advice based on her growth and development.

#asktheexpert i am planning to wean off my daughter is it the correct time?