Weaning your baby: How to go about it?

It is usually not wise to stop breastfeeding overnight. Your body needs time to gradually reduce milk production. This prevents discomforts such as engorgement or a breast infection. A gradual approach is often the most pleasant for both you and your little one.

1. Start by replacing one breastfeeding session a day with a bottle of expressed milk, baby formula or solid food (if your little one is already ready).
2. Give your body and your little one a few days to get used to this change.
3. Then omit a second breastfeeding session, preferably one that you find less convenient or that your little one needs least.
4. Repeat this process until you have weaned your baby entirely.

Useful tips

• Choose an approach that suits you. For example: one breastfeeding session less over a period of five to seven days.
• Prevent engorgement by expressing milk only when your breasts feel very tight and swollen.
• Listen to your body and adjust the pace if you notice it’s going too fast.

Did you know you can track all mental leaps of your baby in The Wonder Weeks app? Find out why your little one is sometimes prone to cry more and how you can support your baby in making use of its new skills.

There is no generally right time to stop breastfeeding. Some mothers breastfeed their baby for a few weeks, others for months or even years. It depends entirely on what feels right for you and your little one.

Some situations where you might consider stopping:

• Your child already takes in a sufficient amount of solid food and requires breastfeeding less often.
• You have practical reasons, such as returning to work or to your studies.
• You yourself feel that you are ready to stop.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusively breastfeeding your baby for up to 6 months and then supplementing it with solid food for up to 2 years or longer. But remember: every feeding session counts, and you decide what’s best for you.

When you decide to start weaning your baby, there are a few things to keep in mind.

About your body

• Wean gradually to prevent engorgement, sore spots, or a breast infection.
• Wear a proper supportive bra and avoid tight clothing.
• Drink enough water and eat healthily. Your body is still recovering from pregnancy and childbirth.

About your little one

• Pay attention to how your child reacts to the change. Some babies need time to get used to bottle feeding or other nutrition.
• Keep building in moments of closeness and bonding, such as cuddling or playing together. This can help to compensate for the lack of breastfeeding.

Are you interested in a schedule that you can use when phasing breastfeeding out? We have prepared one for you.

If you run into problems or have questions, do not hesitate to contact a lactation consultant for assistance. A lactation consultant can tailor a schedule for you and give advice on how best to wean your baby.

Weaning your baby off breastfeeding can be an emotional step. It’s more than just providing nourishment to your baby. Breastfeeding creates a wonderful moment of bonding between you and your baby. Give yourself the time and space to get used to this new chapter in your baby’s life. Maybe saying goodbye to this phase feels like a big step but know that your bond won’t go away. It remains just as strong – whether you’re breastfeeding or not.

Weaning your baby is a process that is different for everyone. Take your time, listen to how you feel, and do what’s right for you and your little one. Whether you choose to wean your baby gradually or have to stop at once, there is no right or wrong. You’re doing it your way, and that’s just the right way.