When and How to Stop Breastfeeding Your Baby | Oh Mama Matrona

Knowing how to stop breastfeeding a baby and what the best time to start weaning is will make a difference when it comes to ending this very special stage. At Oh Mama Matrona, we want this process to be as respectful as possible, both for the little one and for their mother.

Table of Contents

• When is the best time to stop breastfeeding?
• How to stop breastfeeding step by step
• Consequences of abrupt weaning
• How to relieve breast pain during weaning
• Relactation: How to recover breast milk production
• FAQs
• The best way to stop breastfeeding

When is the best time to stop breastfeeding?

The time to stop breastfeeding comes sooner or later. Although the how and when to do it is up to you because, normally, unless there are medical reasons or special circumstances, stopping breastfeeding is usually a very personal decision.

The best time to stop breastfeeding is always when you are mentally prepared for it. It may seem obvious, but it is not always the case.

To succeed in weaning from breastfeeding, willpower, consistency, and a good support network (partner, grandmother, etc.) are needed. And despite having all this, it may be more challenging than you thought, you might fail in one of the attempts, or your little one might wean in just a few days.

To increase your chances of success, it is best to avoid starting when your baby is going through a developmental or growth crisis (sleep regression at 4 months, separation anxiety at 8 months, decreased solid intake at 12 months, or during the “terrible twos,” i.e., at 24 months).

That said, at some point, you will have to start because it always happens. You cannot breastfeed forever, and probably your little one does not want to be attached to the breast for life (although some would extend it for several more years).

Is it necessary to stop breastfeeding?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months whenever possible, extending breastfeeding (not exclusively) up to 2 years if both mother and baby wish to do so.

Therefore, no, it is not necessary to stop breastfeeding if you are not ready, although it is something inevitable. Sometimes it will be because the mother returns to work, other times due to illness, and sometimes because that is how you or your baby feel. In any case, all reasons for stopping breastfeeding are valid.

What is important is that, as much as possible, it is a process that is as natural as possible in which the wishes of both the mother and the baby are respected.

How to stop breastfeeding step by step

There are numerous techniques and tips for stopping breastfeeding respectfully, and the way you decide to do it will also influence the process, which will be longer or more intense, depending on the needs of each family.

Gradually stopping breastfeeding

If possible, the ideal is to stop breastfeeding gradually, that is, without rush or deadlines.

But, how to stop breastfeeding gradually?

1. Start by spacing out the feedings (those that are not for food).
2. In the next step, replace with another type of milk or eliminate one breastfeeding session every 3-7 days.
3. Then, observe how your body reacts, that is, if your milk production adjusts to the new situation.
4. Finally, repeat the process: first removing the “easier” feedings. To identify them, it is important to be clear about the reason for each feeding.

This method of weaning allows for better adaptation for both parties to the new situation. Additionally, it prevents certain ailments such as mastitis.

How to stop breastfeeding without mastitis

Gradually stopping breastfeeding is the best way to reduce the risk of developing mastitis. This is because sudden changes in production and/or excessive milk accumulation favor the formation of this painful inflammation of breast tissue, which may be accompanied by an infection.

If you notice fullness in your breasts while spacing out and/or replacing feedings, you can express some breast milk. Be careful! Only express enough to relieve the swelling without “emptying” the breast completely.

According to midwives specialized in breastfeeding, it is ideal to express milk manually, although an electric breast pump can also be used, keeping in mind that these devices can also stimulate milk production.

As an extra tip: if you have swollen breasts, use cold compresses, gently massage yourself, and make sure to change positions while breastfeeding to promote better emptying of the breast.

In summary, the steps to avoid mastitis:

• Wean gradually.
• Reduce feedings slowly.
• Do not empty the breasts completely.
• Express milk to relieve swelling.
• Use cold compresses.
• Ensure your baby has a good latch.

Abrupt weaning

As we saw in the post about types of weaning, abrupt or emergency weaning is a sudden interruption of breastfeeding. This type of abrupt weaning usually occurs for compelling reasons, such as a serious maternal illness or prolonged periods of separation between mother and child.

To avoid it being traumatic for those involved, support for the mother is more important than in other cases. As for the baby, they will likely need extra doses of affection, physical, and emotional contact during this transition.

Consequences of abrupt weaning

The urgency of stopping breastfeeding suddenly can lead to physical and/or emotional consequences for both the mother and the infant.

We are talking about breast pain, swelling, or mastitis and/or engorgement in the case of the mother, and emotional distress or rejection of other types of feeding by the little one.

Physical and emotional consequences for the mother:

• Feeling of fullness in the breast.
• Swelling, redness of the breast.
• Breast engorgement and pain.
• Breast abscess (requires surgical drainage).
• Milk blockage.
• Increased risk of developing mastitis.
• Hormonal changes.
• Feelings of grief, guilt, or sadness (higher risk of depression).
• Episodes of stress.

Physical and emotional consequences for the baby:

• Rejection of new food that replaces breastfeeding.
• Frustration or irritability.
• Increased crying episodes.

As we have said, real support for both the mother and the baby will be essential to sustain them. We must avoid making stopping breastfeeding a traumatic process for both! Physical contact, understanding, and empathy will greatly help you close this stage in the best possible way.

What if I have to stop breastfeeding overnight?

There is no one-size-fits-all formula for all women. There are techniques you already know that can help you with weaning: try them, keep what works for you, be clear about your reason (why do I want to wean?), and adjust the strategy.

Although, as you already know the possible consequences, the best way to stop breastfeeding overnight is to consult a lactation specialist midwife who can design a respectful plan for you and your baby. And remember, all breastfeeding ends at some point; you are not alone.

How to relieve breast pain during weaning

To relieve breast pain during weaning, there are a series of strategies to avoid that can be counterproductive, such as, for example, binding the breasts (an outdated practice that can cause mastitis and other ailments).

However, there are a series of techniques that can be very useful when it comes to stopping breastfeeding, such as controlled expressions of breast milk.

Let me explain. One of the first things you will notice when you start weaning is the feeling of full breasts. This can be more or less uncomfortable, but you should not wait for the discomfort to turn into pain.

To avoid it, express milk manually (or use a breast pump moderately).

Should I empty my breast? No, just express milk until you relieve the swelling. Moderation is key in this technique.

As mentioned earlier, the use of local cold compresses (cabbage leaves, frozen packs) and massages (from the breast to the nipple) can also alleviate discomfort between feedings.

If there is pain, you can take some anti-inflammatory medication after consulting with your healthcare provider.

Remember that it is also very important to stay hydrated, maintain a good diet, and stay active.

Relactation: How to recover breast milk production

To relactate, that is, to stimulate breast milk production again, you will need a good dose of patience, consistency, and professional support to guide you on this journey, which can be slow and not without complications.

If we need to space out feedings to wean, to relactate we must stimulate the breasts frequently. Additionally, we must help the baby latch onto the breast optimally and suck effectively.

As a trick, babies tend to nurse better when they are relaxed and half-asleep. Take advantage of these moments to offer them the breast.

Ideally, offer the breast every two hours approximately. Techniques such as skin-to-skin contact, bathing with them, will help you in this process. And avoid the “overuse” of pacifiers and bottles during this phase.

We must also ensure that the baby continues to take the amount of milk they need. Hence, it is important to monitor their weight and ensure they are well-hydrated (wetting 5-6 diapers a day).

It is possible that their weight may plateau at the beginning of this process or even lose a little weight. But nothing significant. Otherwise, consult with their pediatrician and/or your midwife.

How to stimulate milk during relactation

To stimulate milk production, offer the breast frequently to your little one and/or express “at least” 5 to 8 times a day (preferably also at night).

It is important to keep in mind that you should not eliminate formula feedings in the first phase of relactation.

If you have decided to start relactation, have questions about latching or how to stop breastfeeding a baby, talk to a specialist. At Oh Mama Matrona, we have a large team of midwives specialized in breastfeeding who can help you both in person (in Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona) and online for the rest of the world.

FAQs

In consultations, some doubts about weaning often repeat, and here we answer the most common ones. If you have any questions, you can leave them in the comment form at the end of the article.

Can I continue breastfeeding while pregnant?

Yes, you can continue breastfeeding even while pregnant with another baby. It is safe for both the mother and the older child.

That said, some women notice increased sensitivity in their breasts during pregnancy, the taste of the milk may change, and/or you may feel slight contractions of the uterus while breastfeeding. All of this is normal; if you have questions about this topic, consult with a midwife.

Can I co-sleep and not wean?

Yes, you can co-sleep (that is, “take” the baby out of the family bed or co-sleeper) without weaning. This process usually occurs once we have stopped nighttime feedings and your baby sleeps in their own crib or room. During the day, you continue with breastfeeding.

The best way to stop breastfeeding

As you can see, there are many factors to consider when starting weaning. So, if you are...