How to Stop Breastfeeding
Posted on March 12th, 2009 by Elaine
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Breastfeeding is an important phase for any mommy, but there comes a time when you have to make your little angel stop. He might already be too old, or maybe you’re experiencing problems with your body when it comes to milk production. Whatever the case, here are some effective and easy ways on how to stop breastfeeding.
What You’ll Need:
- Formula milk
- Baby bottles
Don’t Go Cold Turkey
Completely eliminating breastfeeding causes problems both for you and your baby. Because of the sudden change in feeding habits, your child may become upset, and start having tantrums,. You’ll have a difficult time convincing him to switch to bottled milk. As for the mommy, you’ll experience unpleasant physical changes, such as engorgement (since you’re not taking out the milk anymore) and plugged milk ducts, which can lead to an infection known as mastitis later on.
Eliminate Daily Breastfeeding Sessions
Instead of completely stopping breastfeeding, you can try to gradually reduce the time your baby spends sucking on your breast. Like many moms, you’ve probably established specific feeding times during a day. During one of the feeding times, give your baby some breast milk in a baby bottle, preferably one with naturally-shaped nipples. This will ease his feeling of discomfort or loss, since he still gets the taste he’s used to. If you think your baby is big enough for the adjustment, you can try giving him formula milk. Eventually, he’ll get used to the new routine, and you can completely stop breastfeeding.
Another tip: when you start with the new feeding method, try to change your position as well. If you change your baby’s milk, but retain the old breastfeeding position, he might become confused and uncomfortable. Try feeding with his back against your stomach. Not only are you taking him away from your breasts, you’re also introducing him to a new feeding position.
Ask Daddy To Feed The Baby
Mommy doesn’t have to do everything for the baby, and daddy can help out with this new feeding routine. During the times when you’re giving your baby his bottle, ask your husband if he can do it for you. If he’s not around, ask another person, one whom the baby is also familiar with.
Stay Comfy
Stopping breastfeeding may cause dire effects on your body, too. Always feel your breasts as you lessen feedings. If they are hard, leaky and full, you might need to pump milk. You can also try massaging your breasts while you’re in the shower, to eliminate hard lumps on your breasts. Give your body time to adjust. This can take weeks, even months.
Avoiding Complications
- During the weaning process, wear a firm-fitting bra.
- Don’t take hot showers. If you must, stand with your back to the water.
- Relieve engorgement or pain by putting cold or hot compresses on top of the breasts.
- Consult your doctor if the pain becomes unbearable.
Your child must eventually grow up, and stopping breastfeeding is one of the first steps you both have to take. Keep these tactics in mind, and he’ll adjust sooner than you think.
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