The World Health Organization (WHO) and Ministry of Health NZ recommend:
– Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life (no other food or drink, including water).
– Continue breastfeeding alongside solid foods up to 2 years and beyond, as long as it works for mother and baby.
Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients, immune protection, and emotional comfort well into toddlerhood. There is no medical or developmental reason to stop at a certain age. Natural weaning varies worldwide and often occurs between 2 and 4 years in traditional societies.
Why Continue Beyond Infancy?
– Nutrition: Breastmilk continues to provide energy, fat, protein, and key vitamins into toddlerhood.
– Immune Support: Ongoing antibodies protect against illness, especially when daycare begins.
– Comfort & Attachment: Feeding offers emotional reassurance during teething, illness, or stress.
– Natural Weaning: Children gradually reduce feeds as they eat more solids and become more independent.
When to Stop?
Breastfeeding ends either by child-led weaning, mother-led weaning, or a mix of both. There’s no right or wrong time-it depends on your goals, lifestyle, and baby’s needs.
You might consider stopping when:
– You feel ready physically or emotionally.
– Your baby loses interest or reduces feeds naturally.
– You’re returning to work or managing other caregiving priorities (though partial breastfeeding may still be possible).
Some parents continue once-a-day feeds (e.g. bedtime) for months or years.
How to Wean Gently
– Gradually drop one feed at a time over days or weeks.
– Replace with a cuddle, snack, or distraction, depending on your child’s age.
– If reducing due to discomfort or supply, try hand expressing or partial pumping.
– Watch for signs of engorgement or emotional distress-go slow and be flexible.
Final Word
There’s no fixed endpoint for breastfeeding. What matters most is that the decision to continue or stop is informed, supported, and right for both of you.
Need support? Contact a qualified IBCLC or La Leche League leader to talk through your feeding journey.
