How Long Should You Breastfeed? A Midwife’s Insight
Breastfeeding is a beautiful and intimate part of motherhood, but the question of how long you should breastfeed often comes with a mix of emotions, considerations, and uncertainty.
In our deep desire to care for our babies, mothers sometimes fall victim to anxiety or comparison. But deciding how long you should breastfeed is a deeply personal, individual decision that involves balancing your baby’s needs alongside your own.
Let’s look into some of the benefits of breastfeeding, general recommendations, and considerations around weaning to shed some light on this question and empower your decision-making.
The Short- and Long-Term Benefits of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding isn’t just about feeding your baby, though that’s certainly crucial — it’s also about creating a secure bond. The skin-to-skin contact of breastfeeding fosters a sense of closeness and safety for both mother and child. During those early days, when everything feels new and overwhelming, this connection can be grounding.
From a health perspective, breast milk is packed with anti-inflammatory and anti-infective properties that shield your baby from infections, especially during the first few vulnerable months. Essentially, breast milk transfers a mother’s immune defenses to her baby, building a robust protective shield.
During distressing situations (like getting a heel prick), breastfeeding provides a gentle analgesic effect, helping soothe your little one.
Over the long term, breastfeeding continues to strengthen your baby’s immune system, reducing the risk of conditions like pneumonia, ear infections, and gastrointestinal problems. In fact, breastfed babies tend to experience fewer illnesses overall. Studies also show breastfeeding may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, and even certain types of childhood cancers like leukemia.
For moms, breastfeeding offers several physical benefits as well. Immediately after birth, it helps the uterus contract, accelerating recovery. Additionally, breastfeeding can delay the return of menstrual cycles, providing a natural (but not foolproof) aid to contraception.
Long-term benefits of breastfeeding include a reduced risk of breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers, as well as a lower chance of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It’s incredible how this simple, natural act can profoundly impact both your health and your baby’s.
How Long Should You Breastfeed?
When considering how long you should breastfeed, it’s important to know there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The World Health Organization (WHO) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend breastfeeding for two years, while the U.S. Dietary Guidelines advise doing so for at least one year. Beyond these benchmarks, it comes down to what works best for you and your child.
Biologically, human beings are designed to breastfeed for anywhere from two to seven years. While this may seem surprising, it’s normal and even beneficial for toddlers to continue breastfeeding if that works for the family. Some children naturally begin to wean when they become more interested in solid foods, while others may continue to seek the comfort and nourishment of breastfeeding into their toddler years.
Ultimately, the decision about how long to breastfeed involves a variety of factors, from health considerations to personal needs. Some moms, for instance, may need to wean their babies earlier than others in order to return to work, a second pregnancy, or other reasons.
Practical Tips for Weaning
Weaning doesn’t happen overnight; it’s usually a gradual process, especially when done mindfully to benefit both mother and baby.
When it’s time to wean, I recommend doing so slowly and gently. This helps your child feel secure and allows your body to adjust to the reduced milk production. Here are some practical steps:
Reduce Feedings Gradually: Instead of stopping abruptly, reduce the length of breastfeeding sessions or eliminate one feeding at a time. This gentle approach minimizes discomfort, reduces the risk of plugged ducts or mastitis, and helps prevent hormonal swings.
Comfort Strategies: If engorgement or discomfort occurs, using cool compresses or chilled cabbage leaves can provide relief. Be cautious about wearing tight or restrictive clothing, as it may contribute to discomfort or blocked ducts.
Weaning doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is to take your time, listen to your body, and be patient.
What to Expect as You Wean
As you transition from breastfeeding, your body will undergo natural changes. Your breasts will gradually decrease in size, and you may experience hormonal fluctuations — though these shifts are often less pronounced when weaning gradually. Because breastfeeding impacts metabolism, you may experience some initial weight gain.
One significant change to watch for is the return of your menstrual cycle. For many women, this comes back once breastfeeding sessions decrease, and it can bring hormonal shifts that might affect mood and energy levels. Keeping track of these changes can help you feel more in tune with your body during this time.
How Long Should You Breastfeed? Making the Right Decision for You
How long you should breastfeed is a question only you can answer, guided by your baby’s needs and your circumstances. It’s perfectly normal if your breastfeeding journey looks different from someone else’s. Some mothers are ready to wean after a year, while others continue well into toddlerhood. Trusting your instincts and respecting your own boundaries is crucial.
Remember, every drop of breast milk provides benefits, so whether you breastfeed for a few months or several years, you’re giving your baby an amazing gift. If you decide to extend breastfeeding, even a couple of sessions a day can be deeply nourishing and comforting for your child. It’s all about what’s sustainable and joyful for your family.
In the end, the question of “how long should you breastfeed” doesn’t have a perfect answer. Whatever you choose, know that your love, care, and dedication make all the difference. Breastfeeding is just one of the many ways you nurture your baby, and each family’s experience is beautifully unique.
Lauren Schrenk, CNM, MSN
Lauren Schrenk is a midwife at Haven Birth & Wellness, dedicated to providing holistic, community-based care. With a deep passion for women’s health and natural birth, Lauren focuses on empowering women through informed choices and personalized care. She is excited to be part of Haven's mission to support families during such pivotal moments in their lives.
Originally from Georgia, Lauren now lives in Nashville with her husband, golden doodle, and their sweet daughter. Outside of midwifery, Lauren enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, and exploring Nashville’s vibrant community.
Disclaimer: The content on the Haven Birth and Wellness website is created and/or reviewed by qualified Certified Nurse Midwives and healthcare professionals. We strive to provide accurate and detailed information for our readers. However, this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Your own healthcare provider is best equipped to understand your unique situation and medical history. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any decisions that may affect your health.