Every act of a baby is memorable for a mother, from the first cry to the first latching experience. She cherishes every tiny step and phase of her child and makes it a reason for her joy. Breastfeeding holds a special sweet and sour place in a mother’s heart. It also has a long list of benefits, from providing nutrients to major brain development of a baby. However, like every other journey, it also has to end. WHO recommends mothers to breastfeed their babies for a minimum of six months and a maximum of 2 to 2.5 years. However, we understand that every mother has a unique journey, and there can be various reasons for you to stop breastfeeding before or after the time limit.
Once the decision is made, the question arises: How to Stop Breastfeeding? There is no perfect recipe or fixed timeline for drying your milk supply. But we have the steps that can make the procedure swift and easy for both you and your child.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
The most common technique is to wean the baby naturally. Wait till they start solids and start replacing the breastmilk with healthy and fulfilling meals. One of the benefits of breastmilk is that it helps your baby digest solids. This is the ideal method for naturally weaning a baby.
But sometimes, it’s not an option; maybe you have to rejoin your office, or you are pregnant again. Whatever the reason, now the question is how to stop breastfeeding immediately.
The Quick Option
Start by dropping one least important feed on regular basis. Leave the early morning and night feeds for the last. Start using comfortable supportive bras to avoid painfully heavy breasts. In case of engorgement or pain, consult your doctor and learn how to use hand expressions to feel comfortable. If the baby has not started solids yet then ask your doctor for a good child formula milk to replace breastfeeding.
In any case, never offer cow’s milk as a replacement for breastmilk to babies under 1 year. If the baby has started solids, then you can add a small amount of cow’s milk to foods like mashed potatoes.
Rule Of Thumb
When it comes to stop breastfeeding, there is a tried and tested method of skipping one feed every 4-5 days. This gradual method ensures minimum chances of engorgement and pain issues. It also provides time to both mother and baby to adapt to their new schedule.
Problems you might face
The weaning process often comes with some common issues. It is important to talk how you can prevent them when talking about how to stop breastfeeding.
1. Mastitis
Your breast will take their own time to dry up. Under no circumstances you should use breast binding to speed up the drying process. This may cause some serious issues like mastitis and duct clogging. Immediately concern your doctor if at any time you show symptoms of mastitis like fever or red lumps on your breast.
2. Emotional Turmoil
The weaning procedure causes hormonal ups and downs, which may result in you feeling emotional and detached from your child or mom’s guilt. You should understand that it’s normal and a part of the process. Eat healthy and nutritious food to keep the hormones in check. Indulge yourself in your favourite hobby, and do not skip your regular exercises.
3. Engorgement
Almost every woman faces engorgement during the weaning process. You can use a cold or hot pack to relieve the pain. Hot showers and baths also help in reducing the chances of engorgement. If the pain is not bearable, then we suggest hand expression or breast pumping only till the pain becomes bearable. Overly removing breast milk or completely emptying it signals your body to produce more. One of the famous old wives’ tales is to place cabbage leaves under your well-supported bra.
How to Stop Breastfeeding and Manage Baby Needs
The topic of how to stop breastfeeding is incomplete without discussing the needs of the child during the process. The weaning procedure is equally challenging for a baby as it is for a mother. Your baby might appear cranky and clingy for some time. During this, take a breather and remember to handle them calmly and with love. Ask for help whenever needed. Spend as much time as possible with your child, offering warm cuddles. Make sure that they are getting all the necessary nutrition in the form of meals or formula, depending upon their age.
Final Words
A modern-age mother already has a lot on her plate rather than worrying about how to stop breastfeeding. We believe that no matter the reason, a mother’s journey of weaning should be as smooth as possible. Remember to be kind towards yourself and fulfil your physical and emotional demands. Keep your focus on the new beginnings rather than focusing on the end of the previous one. Do not hesitate to ask for help or rely on your loved ones.
