You may wonder if your baby has had his fill, or when to stop breastfeeding as your child grows and his appetite and nutritional needs change. Some children will feed or cry and seem hungry when they have gas, or an upset stomach, and sometimes your child may be more or less hungry than they usually are.
Let baby feed until he or she is done
You should let your child feed until they are done. If you child starts to go to sleep after nursing, or just stops feeding, this is really the best indicator that they are done. Trying to time your child and feed for 20 minutes every 2 hours just does not sate every single baby. Every child is different, and has varying needs and preferences.
In reference to the larger end of this question- weaning- things get a little more difficult. You probably heard all through your pregnancy that breast is best (and it is), and you’ve put so much hard work into being a breastfeeding mother that it may even be a little upsetting to think of weaning.
When to start weaning baby
When is the most appropriate time to begin weaning your baby? The truth is that there is no perfect time for all children to stop breastfeeding. If you have specific concerns, consult a physician but otherwise, your child may let you know when it is time to wean. Most babies wont self wean until at least twelve months, but past this you or your child just may not be interested in the breastfeeding anymore- this is a good time to stop.
If you feel resentful (which is normal and common), you should definitely stop breastfeeding, or if you need medical care that interferes with breastfeeding. If you wean gradually, and lovingly, this can be a positive experience for yourself and baby (). Every child has different needs, and no one knows this better than the people caring for the child.
Use a breast pump for returning to work
If you’re considering weaning because you have to return to work, and you exclusively breast feed, you may want to consider using a breast pump (which can also be used to increase milk production if you feel you do not produce enough). Breast pumps can be very expensive, but Aeroflow Breastpumps offers top-brand pumps at amazingly competitive pricing as well as through insurance.
Affordable Care Act and breast pumps
Under the new Affordable Care Act, health insurance companies may now cover the cost of a breast pump. Aeroflow Breastpumps can quickly and easily help you find out if you could receive a pump at little-to-no cost through insurance. Simply complete our Qualify Through Insurance form and let our Breastpump Specialist take care of the rest.
Your dedicated Specialist will contact your insurance company and healthcare provider, verify your coverage and network status, and contact you within 3-5 business days to discuss your pump options and shipment date.
If you and your baby are not ready to begin the weaning process, adding a breast pump to the mix can help you breastfeed as long as you and baby desire. Contact Aeroflow Breastpumps today!
Information provided in blogs should not be used as a substitute for medical care or consultation.
