You may need to stop breastfeeding because you are returning to work after maternity leave, for a medical reason, or you're ready to wean your baby.If you stop suddenly, you can cause breast pain and confuse the baby.Follow these steps to learn how to gradually wean your baby.
Step 1: You can decide on a breastfeeding replacement.
When you're ready to stop breast feeding, you need a substitute that is good for you and your baby.The baby's transition from breastfeeding to eating from a bottle or cup will be easier if you seek guidance from your doctor.Continue feeding breast milk that has been pumped if you choose to stop breastfeeding.You don't have to stop feeding the baby breast milk if you no longer want to.This is a good option for mothers who don't want to stop feeding the baby breast milk but are not ready to do so.The breast milk should be replaced with formula.Ask your doctor if fortified formula is right for your baby.Breast milk should be replaced with cow's milk.If the baby is 4 to 6 months old, he or she may be able to take solid food with him or her.Babies may also have cow's milk.
Step 2: Should the baby be removed from the bottle?
When breast feeding is ending, it is a good time to remove the baby from the bottle and use a cup.Babies need liquid nutrition in the form of breast milk or formula throughout their first year, but they can start drinking from a cup as early as 4 months.Stop-Breast-Feeding-Step-2Bullet1.JPG
Step 3: The daytime feeding should be replaced.
To wean the baby, gradually choose a feeding that happens during a busy time of the day and replace it with your choice of substitute.Breast milk or formula can be put in a bottle or cup to feed the baby.Feeding can be done in a new room.Weaning a baby is both physical and psychological.The baby can be helped by doing it in a new room.Stop-Breast-Feeding-Step-3Bullet1: smallUrl
Step 4: Every few days, replace another feeding.
As the baby gets used to the new style of eating, you should keep feeding him every two or three days.The baby may grow confused if the process is rushed, so don't rush it.Before every feeding, give the baby milk or formula in a cup or bottle.The baby needs to be used to the alternative feeding instruments.Stop-Breast-Feeding-Step-4Bullet1: smallUrlContinue replacing and shortening feedings over the course of a few weeks until the baby has switched to drinking from a bottle or cup.
Step 5: Help the baby get used to being alone.
Babies breastfeeding before they go to sleep is an example.If you start putting the baby to bed without first breastfeeding, he or she will be able to sleep without this activity.Replacing breastfeeding with another ritual can help.Before the baby goes to sleep, consider reading a story, playing a game, or rocking in the chair.Don't replace breastfeeding with a toy.The process of sterilizing the baby will be more difficult because of these items.
Step 6: Make up for stopping breastfeeding with extra comfort.
Babies need skin contact almost as much as they need food.It's important to give extra cuddles during the process.
Step 7: Stay with it.
Every baby has a different process for weaning.It may take a few months for the baby to be able to drink without complaint.Don't give up; stick to your routine, and gradually replace feedings as you go.It is possible that your baby needs extra comfort when he or she is sick.During times like these, reverting to breastfeeding is fine.Extra time with a father, older sibling, or another relative can help the baby.As the baby's relationships with other people grow, he or she won't be as dependent on you to be the sole source of comfort.Stop-Breast-Feeding-Step-7Bullet2.jpg/v4-460px
Step 8: When to take the baby to the doctor is up to you.
The transition from breastfeeding can lead to medical problems.It's a good idea to see a doctor if you don't know whether you're making the best choice for your child.The baby will refuse to eat solid food even if he or she is over 6 months of age.The baby has dental problems.The baby doesn't seem interested in other people or activities and focuses on you.
Step 9: Don't worry about your body's transition.
The baby will drink less breast milk.It is possible that your breasts become engorged or inflammatory.Try to give yourself a small amount of milk, either by pump or manually, during missed feedings.Your body will make more milk if you don't empty your breasts.If you need some additional relief, apply a cold compress to your breast 3 or 4 times per day for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time.This helps relieve inflammation.