How to Wean Your Child From Breastfeeding

“Whatever mother decides to do is really the right decision,” said Dr. Anne Eglash, M.D., a family doctor and lactation consultant in Madison, Wis., and a cofounder of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, an organization of doctors dedicated to promoting, protecting and supporting breastfeeding.

Decide on your approach.

When it comes to weaning, there are two main approaches: parent-led weaning and child-led weaning. As their names suggest, the approaches differ mainly by who is taking charge.

Many parents don’t adopt one strategy over another, but one that falls somewhere in the middle. Some might let the child lead, but set limits around how often and where the child can nurse. Others might begin the weaning process themselves, but adjust the timeline to accommodate a child who is having difficulty adapting. Weaning doesn’t have to be all or nothing. As long as your milk supply is well established, you can reduce the frequency of nursing without totally stopping. Your body will adjust. Even parents who decide to nurse just once or twice a day can typically maintain their milk supply.

All experts agree that, however you decide to wean, it should happen gradually. Try not to quit cold turkey unless it’s necessary (see below). Abrupt weaning, especially for women who are breastfeeding many times a day, can lead to breast discomfort, engorgement, plugged ducts or even mastitis.

Also keep in mind that it is not uncommon for babies who are nursing to refuse the breast temporarily, especially when they’re between 4 and 7 months. But a nursing strike isn’t a sign that your child is ready to wean. Most children don’t self-wean until they are well over 1 year old. And weaning typically happens gradually, whereas a nursing strike is sudden.

If you choose to initiate weaning, start by eliminating nursing sessions slowly.

By slowly eliminating breastfeeding sessions over the course of several days or even weeks, you’ll reduce the risk of painful engorgement, which can lead to plugged ducts or mastitis.