Weening from breastfeeding -

Weening from breastfeeding

Can anyone offer me advice about how to ween my 16 month old off the breast? She is really stubborn. If she can see any cleavage, she wants to breastfeed, and she will try to pull my breast out of my shirt, regardless of where we are. This has happened while walking to the car, at the grocery store, and even at church. It is becoming really embarashing and physically painful.

Written by Keshia

Posted on 02/28/2008

See all posts by Keshia

Answers:

I really don't know what to tell you except try putting the breastmilk in a bottle with half milk and eventually work her up to a whole milk bottle. That's what my son's doctor told me to do when I was trying to get him off formula.

posted by Chelle on 02/29/2008

Wow I am in the exact same boat as you. This is the only way my daughter will go to sleep. She also wakes up numerous times at night. My little girl is mesmerized by the breast. The other day she even tried to nurse a barbie. haha I am so ready to wean her but its just not that easy. I dont know what to do either but its nice to know that i'm not the only one struggling to wean a 16 month old. :)

posted by Amber on 03/07/2008

I used to have the same problem about breastfeeding all night long. But finally I just got really fed up and I started putting her in her own bed at night. Its been working for 2 weeks. She cried a lot at first, but I just rubbed her back and told her to lay down until she went to sleep. Sometimes she still wakes up at night, but I usually just change her diaper or give her a sippy cup (that she doesn't drink) and she goes back to sleep. Its really nice to have my bed back, but I haven't been as lucky with weaning during the day.

posted by Keshia on 03/07/2008

My daughter is 20 months old. We are still breastfeeding as well. I have been ready for a few monthes now and we have been trying to cut the feedings out one at a time. It has been a slow process. I have to follow my gut and not let her cry it out, she may not need the milk for sustainance but she is needing the bond and not quite ready to give it up. My only advice is to remind yourself of all of the wonderful benefits she is receiving from the milk and the time with mom. Once I reached this point past the frusteration she seemed to pick up on my cues and stopped the embarassing tugging at the shirt in public. Her needs are being met and we are slowly compromising with the weaning. Good luck.

posted by Heather on 03/13/2008

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