How Long Should You Breastfeed
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Your Baby
Breastfeeding offers many important benefits to both baby and mother, but it can be difficult to know how long to continue breastfeeding. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of the baby’s life and then breastfeeding alongside other foods until the baby is at least two years old.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends babies receive nothing but breastmilk for the first six months, and continue to breastfeed for at least 12 months. After 12 months, the AAP suggests nursing can be extended as long as desired either by the mother or baby. It’s important for a mother to make her own decision about when to wean based on what is best for her and her baby.
There are various factors to consider when deciding how long to breastfeed. Many mothers make a decision to wean at the six-month mark, but this is not necessarily the right time for every mother or baby. Babies’ nutritional needs and mothers’ comfort or health issues may mean breastfeeding may continue into the baby’s second year or beyond.
As the baby gets older, mothers must monitor the breastfeeding pattern carefully and seek advice if they are concerned. It is worth considering if the baby is receiving enough nutrition if growth patterns change or the baby loses interest in breastfeeding after six months.
Babies should receive other foods in addition to breastmilk for extra nutrition. It is important for a mother to be informed about the nutritional content of her breastmilk, the baby’s nutritional needs, and how to balance feedings with solids.
If a mother decides to wean before the one-year mark, she should do so slowly, introducing more solid food over time and giving the baby extra cuddles and attention during the weaning process. This can make the transition easier for both the baby and mother.
The decision on how long to breastfeed is a majorly personal one. There is no fixed length of time that is best for every situation, so it’s important to consider preferences and pay attention to any signs that can be telling of the right time to wean.