All about long breastfeeding
All young mothers have many questions about breastfeeding. Is breastfeeding mandatory? Until what age is breastfeeding normal? First of all, we want to reassure you about one thing: there is really no standard at this level. So just because you feed your toddler quickly with a bottle doesn’t mean you’re a bad mother. It is also not because you are breastfeeding your baby for several years that you are overcooking it. Our article on long-term breastfeeding will help you see things more clearly.
Long breastfeeding: standards that evolve according to countries
In France, the average is 15 weeks of breastfeeding. You may know a mother who breastfed longer. It’s all about envy. In Sweden, for example, it is not uncommon for a mother to continue to feed her child during the first year of life.
As a result, you understand that there is no strict definition of long breastfeeding. That said, the WHO considers that babies fed with breast milk after 6 months are an exception and fall into the category of long-term breastfeeding.
The benefits of long breastfeeding
Long breastfeeding has many benefits for both the mother and toddler. Studies have shown that a woman who breastfeeds for a long time is less likely to develop certain cancers. In addition, long breastfeeding also promotes faster weight loss and improved mood. Not to mention the creation of a true mother-child bond.
For children, it has also been proven that breast milk provides a complete meal while protecting them from allergies and viruses.
It can also be a landmark for toddlers, morning and evening.
When to stop long breastfeeding?
You understand that long breastfeeding has many benefits for both mother and child.
So this must be a special time between you and your child so don’t let anyone dictate what you should do. However, returning to work can force you to end this intimate moment. In addition, the father may also feel excluded because he cannot feed his child. The most important thing is to talk about it as a family. This also applies to older children who may also feel that they no longer have enough attention from their mother.
These are factors that can be taken into account to stop long breastfeeding. The most important thing is to take the time to talk about it with your family and see what everyone thinks.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask your pediatrician who will advise you on weaning or balancing work and your cherubim’s need for breast milk.
In fact, when we talk about breastfeeding weaning, we recommend you read this article:
Breastfeeding weaning: how?