"When should I stop breastfeeding?", "Can I quit cold turkey?", "What if baby refuses?" Weaning is a common concern for many moms.

Right Time to Wean

WHO Recommendation

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, then continued breastfeeding with complementary foods until age 2 or beyond.

Realistic Timing

But every family's situation is different. Common choices:

6 months-1 year: Gradually with solid foods
Around 12 months: Popular choice
18 months-2 years: Baby may self-wean
After 2 years: Naturally baby-led

There's no right answer. The best time is when both mom and baby are ready.

Weaning Methods

Method 1: Gradual Weaning (Recommended)

The gentlest approach. Slowly reduce over 2-4 weeks.

Week 1: Skip the least important feeding Week 2: Drop one more feeding Week 3: Keep daytime, reduce night feeds Week 4: Drop the last feeding (usually bedtime)

Method 2: Substitute and Reduce

Replace breast with alternatives:

Formula or cow's milk (after 12 months)
Offer snacks or water at feeding times
Have dad play during those times

Method 3: Baby-Led Weaning

Wait until baby naturally loses interest. Often happens between 2-4 years.

Weaning Tips

Tips for Mom

Preventing Engorgement

Don't stop suddenly - reduce gradually
Express only when uncomfortable (don't empty)
Cold cabbage leaves in bra
Pain relievers if needed

Emotional Care

Hormonal changes can cause sadness
Don't feel guilty - it's natural
Bond with baby in other ways

Tips for Baby

Be consistent: Once started, don't go back and forth
Offer alternatives: Cups, snacks, cuddles
Distraction: Other activities at feeding times
Maintain contact: Keep hugging and spending time together

When NOT to Wean

Consider waiting if:

Baby is sick
Major changes like moving, starting daycare
Mom is tired or stressed
During extreme summer heat (dehydration risk)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I stop cold turkey?

Not recommended. Can cause severe engorgement, and baby will be confused. If unavoidable, pump a little to gradually reduce.

Q: Should night feeds stop first?

Order doesn't matter. Usually daytime feeds are easier to drop first. Night feeds often last longest.

Q: Baby refuses breast?

Could be a natural signal. Don't force it - follow baby's lead.

Q: Still producing milk after weaning?

Normal. Can continue for weeks to months. Not expressing will gradually reduce it.

Q: Can I wean before 12 months?

Yes, but replace with formula. Don't give regular cow's milk before 12 months.

Track Weaning with BebeSnap

Recording your weaning journey helps identify patterns:

Feeding logs to see decreasing frequency
Notes to record baby's reactions
Reference for next baby later

👉 Learn more about BebeSnap Feeding Records

References

Complete Weaning Guide: When and How to Stop Breastfeeding