Weaning is when a baby transitions from breastfeeding to other sources of nourishment. It involves slowly reducing the duration and amount of feeding sessions.¹ The length of time that you breastfeed or produce breast milk is a personal choice for everyone. However, when the day comes that you are thinking about weaning, there is some helpful information to know. 

When Should I Wean?

The World Health Organization recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed for 6 months, then gradually introduced to appropriate foods after six months while continuing to breastfeed for two years or beyond.² As long as breastfeeding is working for you and your baby, it can go on for as long as you like. There is no exact age at which a child should be weaned. Ultimately, you and your baby are a two person relationship. So, you get to decide together how long you will breastfeed.

Sometimes, moms may feel that they must wean due to medications, illness, or life scenarios. In these cases, it can be helpful to talk to a lactation consultant for guidance. It may be possible to continue breastfeeding in many situations.^3,4

How Should I Wean?

Take it slow! Weaning will be easier on your baby and body when done slowly. A gradual process allows your body to adapt more easily to making less milk. This means there is less risk of discomfort or breast infection. For your baby, the slow change is helpful to ease into the new routine of breastfeeding less.

Mother Led Weaning

Mother led weaning occurs when moms limit the time length or amount of breastfeeding sessions to slowly decrease breastfeeding. Often picking a midday session is the easiest to start with for many. The first morning and bedtime feed are typically the last to go. If possible, plan ahead so you can wean over weeks or even months.

Infant Led Weaning

Infant led weaning is when the child decides when he or she no longer needs to nurse.  It is very rare for infants to self wean before twelve months of age.  In fact, when children are allowed to nurse as long as they’d like, they typically self wean at two to four years old.⁵

Substituting Breast Milk

During weaning, a substitute for breast milk is given via cup or bottle. Pumped breast milk or formula is the suggested replacement for babies under twelve months. If your baby is over one year old, you can offer him or her a cup of cow’s milk, pumped breast milk, water, or food. Also, older babies often nurse to meet the need for connection. So, your baby may have that need met with a bonding activity. Some ideas are time spent reading a book, playing a game, or going for a walk.

Engorgement During Weaning

Some moms experience engorgement, or breast fullness, during weaning. Here are some helpful tips if you have discomfort from fullness.⁶

• Hand express or pump small amounts of milk to the point of comfort.
• Use cold packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Watch for signs of infection. Signs include red areas of the breast, fever, and flu-like symptoms. Call your healthcare provider if these occur.

Tips for Weaning

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, this Aeroflow class expands on some of the topics discussed above:

• Solid Foods for the Breastfed Baby

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References