How to Wean Off of the Breasts
Breastfeeding not only provides your baby with many nutrients necessary for development, but also provides antibodies to help his immune system. Yet, there comes a time when you may decide to begin weaning your baby from your breasts. The Mayo Clinic website recommends waiting at least one year before weaning. It can help to wait for your baby to initiate the transition himself, which will avoid conflict. However, if you need to begin weaning due to work restraints or health reasons, weaning doesn't have to become a burden.
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Instructions
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Only feed baby foods. Introduce baby foods after your baby is six months of age. Baby rice cereal and pureed vegetables are a good way to introduce solids. Offer baby foods at least twice a day, but don't become frustrated if your baby isn't interested.
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Pump breast milk for your baby to provide milk if your baby is under one year of age. Having a family member offer milk through a bottle can help make weaning easier for you. Pumping milk will also help avoid engorgement of your breasts during the transition from breast to bottle.
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Choose a time to cut out breastfeeding sessions. Eliminate one breastfeeding a week, suggests KidsHealth. Depending on your child's temperament and your schedule, forgoing the morning feeding may make weaning easier. Nighttime feedings can make the transition more difficult for your child.
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Provide your baby with a distraction. Distract your baby with toys during the times you would have been feeding her. Offering your baby a drink from a baby cup and the opportunity to eat a snack can also distract your baby.
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Tips & Warnings
The longer you wait to wean your baby, the more attached your child will become to breastfeeding.
Your child may adopt thumb-sucking as a form of adjustment to weaning.
Avoid weaning your baby before six months of age.
Babies cannot digest solid foods prior to six months. Introducing solid foods before six months can lead to serious medical issues, such as celiac disease.
Never give your baby foods that require chewing.
Avoid weaning your baby during a move or if she's ill. Weaning during a stressful time can make your baby resist the process.
Don't wear nursing clothes when trying to wean.
References
Resources
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