When Should You Stop Breast Feeding?

By Puruvi Sirohi Singh Tara

Friday, April 17, 2015, 18:35 [IST]

Breast milk is the only feed that a child consumes in the early months after his/her birth supplying as a source of all the nutrients that they need for growth and development. Today, in this article lets learn about when to stop breast feeding.

Once the baby is over six months these nutrient deposits in their body start to run out and they need an external source to compensate for their daily needs.

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In case the child is not getting his share of minerals their growth is affected along with their development of vital organs.

Also, feeding the child is easy for a first few months is extremely easy since the production of milk in the mother’s body is sufficient to make his tummy full.

However, as the child grows he requires a larger sum which cannot be compensated with just the mother’s milk.

This is the reason they frequently feel hungry as the breastfeed is most made up of water which is quickly discharged from the body in the form of urine. Hence, once your baby is not feeling satisfied with his feel and then it is time to change or alter his diet.

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However, remember that the baby needs your feed as long as you can give at least until he is a year old. This is essential for developing immunity in his body.

The early signs that would assist you in knowing when to stop breast feeding your baby are mostly comprised of his frequent hunger.

However, below is a list of some other signs that would help you recognize the moment when to stop breast feeding.

Hunger Issues

Around the age of six months the milk is not sufficient for the child as his hunger is increased. Hence, you know now is the time when to stop breast feeding your baby.

However, it is essential you give him a feed along with other supplements until he is at least a year old and later he can be weaned.

Job

Most of the working ladies get maternity leave only for 6-9 months which is over by the time child turns 6-9 months old. Hence it is essential to introduce him to foods before you start the job back so that he is not hungry during your absence. This is another marker for the time when to stop breast feeding.

Teething

Once the child teething, he unintentionally bites the nipples which can be painful. Usually around six to seven months a child starts teething and this is the moment when to stop the breast feeding and start weaning him gradually to other feeds.

Age

The biggest demarcation or milestone when to stop breast feeding is his age. Doctors advice the introduction of solids at six months of age and weaning should end at a maximum age of one and a half years.

Resentment

After a certain period a mother too starts feeling resentful and looses the will the breast feed. This is the time you have to take the call on when to stop breast feeding.