ExpertSHRUTI KANCHANLactation Educator and Counselor2 years agoA. Hey there! Congrats on making it to 15 months of breastfeeding! It can be tough to decide when it's time to stop. One approach is to gradually reduce the number of feedings each day, starting with the least important ones first. You can also try distracting your little one during times when they would normally nurse, with food, toys or games. Another option is to have someone else put them to bed for a few nights, so they don't associate bedtime with nursing. Remember, every mom and baby is unique, so do what works best for you and your little one!
Do note major health bodies like WHO, IAP and so on recommended breastfeeding for at least until 2 years of age,
Some risks of early weaning
1. Emotionally challenging for both mother and child: Weaning a 15-month-old child from breastfeeding can be emotionally challenging for both the mother and child. It can cause feelings of sadness, depression, and loss for the mother, while the child can become fussy, resistant, and confused.
2. Nutritional deficiencies: Breast milk provides optimal nutrition for infants up to 1 year of age, so stopping breastfeeding before the child turns 1 can result in nutritional deficiencies.
3. Decreased Immune response: Breast milk may provide some immune support and stopping breastfeeding can lead to a weakened immune system for the baby, which leads to an increased risk of infection.
4. Disturbed sleeping patterns: Breastfeeding can often soothe and comfort a child which can lead to frequent nighttime waking. When breastfeeding stops, children may struggle to settle and sleep.
5. Engorgement and mastitis: If the breastfeeding relationship is ended suddenly, it can lead to engorgement and mastitis (a painful breast infection) for the mother, causing physical discomfort and requiring medical attention.
6. Difficulty transitioning and adjusting: Weaning can be a significant change to a child who has relied on breastfeeding for comfort and nutrition their whole lives, so they may struggle to adjust to other foods and methods of comfort.
7. Difficulty with digestion: When child transitions to solid food, they may have difficulty digesting this new food due to the lack of natural digestive enzymes in their body.
Consulting with a pediatrician for a guided weaning process can minimize these risks.
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