Breastfeeding is a beautiful and powerful bond between you and your child. It provides essential nutrients, comfort, and a unique closeness. However, there comes a time when you or your baby might be ready to wean from breastfeeding. This process can feel overwhelming, filled with questions and emotions.

As a Registered Nurse (RN) and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I’m here to offer my knowledge, support, and guidance throughout your weaning journey. Weaning is a deeply personal experience, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. My role is to empower you to make informed decisions that feel right for you and your baby.

Why Wean? Every Reason is Valid

There are many reasons why a parent might choose to wean. It could be due to returning to work, a desire for more independence, or simply a natural shift in your baby’s feeding cues. Maybe you’re experiencing physical discomfort, or your circumstances have changed.  Whatever your reason, it’s completely valid.

Firstly, weaning doesn’t diminish the incredible benefits of breastfeeding you’ve already shared with your child. There’s no shame in deciding to transition, and it doesn’t have to be an abrupt ending.

Common Weaning Methods

Scheduled and gradual

This means you drop a feeding once every few days, usually starting with overnight feeds. If your baby is no longer breastfeeding in the middle of the night, you could start with the feed that your baby is least interested in or when he/she feeds for the shortest amount of time. 

Don’t Ask, But Don’t refuse

You can continue to nurse on demand, but just don’t offer the breast unless they ask for it.

Cold Turkey

This is the least recommended method as this may cause problems with ductal narrowing (previously known as clogged ducts) or mastitis, but this may be necessary in some instances such as a mother who is starting a treatment where breastfeeding is not recommended.

Anytime a parent decides to wean, it’s possible for complications to arise such as what I mentioned above. To alleviate this, you can handexpress or pump for a few minutes if your breasts feel too full. But remember that breastmilk supply works as a demand and supply system. So, if you express milk too much, your body may continue to produce the volume of milk as before. 

Transitioning to Expressed Milk or Formula (Under 12 Months)

If your baby is less than 12 months old, it’s important to note that breast milk or infant formula remains the primary source of their nutrition.  Whole milk is the recommended alternative after 1 year of age, but for younger babies, consult your pediatrician before introducing anything besides breast milk or formula.

You want to feed using the paced bottle method, or you can offer a cup if your baby is > 6 months old. If you’re having trouble introducing a bottle, I can help with bottle refusal.

If you choose to introduce formula during the weaning process, I can guide you on selecting the right type and ensure proper preparation techniques to meet your baby’s nutritional needs.

Weaning Toddlers (Over 12 Months)

Generally, for weaning a toddler over 12 months old, the process can offer more flexibility. There are a few things to keep in mind.

Introducing Whole Milk

Whole milk is the recommended alternative to breast milk for toddlers after 1 year of age per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It provides essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and healthy fats for your growing child. But more and more families are deciding to choose other milk alternatives due to allergies or lifestyle choices. If you are interested in exploring a milk alternative for your child, I suggest speaking with your baby’s healthcare provider before making a switch. Additionally, read over the milk alternatives and nutritional information in the table below.

***Any milk alternative that is not fortified, will require adequate supplementation with food.  Ensuring your child gets the proper amount of protein, healthy fat and nutrients daily, will support their growing brain and organs.

Comparison of common unflavored milk alternatives
	Whole Milk(1 cup)	Rice Milk(1 cup)	Soy Milk(1 cup)	Coconut Milk(1 cup)	Almond Milk(1 cup)	Oat Milk(1 cup)	Hemp Milk(1 cup)	Pea Milk (1 cup)
Energy (kcal)	149	115	105	76	37	130	70	80
Protein (g)	7.69	0.68	6.34	0.51	1.44	4	3	8
Total fat (g)	7.93	2.37	3.59	5.08	2.68	2.5	5	4.5
Saturated fat (g)	4.55	0	0.5	5.083	0	0	0.5	0.5
Cholesterol (mg)	24	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Carbohydrate (g)	11.71	22.37	12	7.12	1.42	24	1	< 1
Calcium (mg)	276	288	300	459	481	350	300	440
Iron (mg)	0.07	0.49	1.02	0.73	0.85	1.8	1.8	0
Vitamin D (IU)	128	96	108	96	96	100	100	110
Note: Homemade almond milk or other homemade milk alternatives do not contain the same number of vitamins, because they are not fortified.

Other Tips

Focus on Meals and Snacks: As you reduce breastfeeding sessions, prioritize offering nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day. This ensures your toddler receives all the necessary nutrients for healthy development.

Make Milk Fun: Offer whole milk in a sippy cup your toddler enjoys. Let them explore different colors and designs to create a positive association with milk.

Limit Sweetened Drinks: Avoid sugary beverages like juice or soda. They can fill up your toddler and reduce their appetite for more nutritious foods and milk.

Offer Cuddles and Reassurance: Weaning can be emotionally challenging for toddlers who might seek comfort from breastfeeding. Offer extra cuddles, sing familiar songs, and provide reassurance throughout the process.

Benefits of Working with an RN and IBCLC

While weaning can be a natural process, there are times when guidance and support can make it smoother and more comfortable. Here’s how working with me as an RN and IBCLC can benefit you:

Personalized Weaning Plan:  We’ll discuss your goals, concerns, and your baby’s feeding habits to create a customized weaning plan that respects both your needs. There’s no pressure to follow a rigid schedule; we’ll tailor the approach to your unique situation.

Expert Knowledge:  I can provide evidence-based information on weaning practices, including safe milk supply regulation for your comfort, proper bottle feeding techniques if you choose to introduce them, and guidance on introducing solid foods.

Emotional Support: Weaning can be an emotional rollercoaster. I’m here to listen to your anxieties, answer your questions, and offer reassurance throughout the process.

Addressing Challenges:  If you encounter difficulties like engorgement, plugged ducts, or emotional distress, I can provide solutions and strategies to overcome them.

Boosting Confidence:  Knowing you have a dedicated professional by your side can significantly boost your confidence during the weaning process. My goal is to empower you to make informed decisions and trust your instincts as a parent.

Remember, You’re Not Alone

Weaning is a journey, not a destination. There will be ups and downs, moments of doubt, and perhaps even tears. But know that you’re not alone in this. As your RN and IBCLC, I’m here to walk beside you, offering support, guidance, and a listening ear every step of the way.

Together, we can create a weaning plan that honors your needs and respects your baby’s cues. Let’s create a positive and supportive environment for this transition, ensuring a smooth and loving journey for both of you. Take a look at my weaning package HERE or book a free connection call with me!

You got this!