It is certain, your child will eventually wean and it’s nice to have some knowledge around what to expect. So, if you aren’t there yet, please save this post for the future or send it to a friend. Even if you are deeply “in it” today and you are feeling like weaning is miles away, it’s helpful to have resources when the time comes. We will go over the following four things:
- Weaning strategies
- What to expect mood-wise
- Ways to cope
- Ways to honor your journey
Weaning Strategies
Some of these are better suited for older babies but here are some ideas and for babies <1 year breastmilk will be substituted for formula or donor milk:
- Don't offer/don't refuse
- Dropping one feed at a time
- Distraction / Substitution
- Change routine
- Postponement
- Shortening sessions
- Night weaning
What to Expect Mood-Wise
- Nursing is a “two-way street" so if anything feels too “off”, slow it down and time is the best medicine
- Consider that part time nursing is a great option and that can mean breastfeeding a couple of times a day for an extended period of time. This can be a nice middle ground for parents for so many reasons and a big one may be for parents who to went back to work but don’t want to pump
- Some nursing parents don’t notice emotional shifts
- Others may feel surprised that you are emotional/weepy, sensitive, relieved, depressed, disappointed, grief, anger and likely it may be a mix (*If feeling depressed, talk to your PCP of mental health provider)
- There is sometimes a sense that your baby doesn’t need you as much
- A drop in oxytocin can lead to intense feelings of loss or sadness
- A drop in prolactin (if sudden) can cause sad feelings
- Estrogen returns to pre-pregnancy levels and that shift can cause irritability or depression for some people
Ways to Honor Your Breastfeeding Journey
- Make or buy a special necklace (you can even find some made with your breastmilk)
- More special time together
- Consider if any “big kid” privileges can be unlocked for older kids like access to their own healthy snacks / drinks
- Consider a weaning party
- Create something commemorative together like an album or a cake
Ways to Cope
- Mama self-care
- Social support
- Do some fun things/outings/make plans
- Work with mental health professional
- Have self compassion
- Book a weaning consultation with an IBCLC! Virtual/telehealth usually works just fine for this
