Question
how long should you breast feed?
How long should your breast feed your baby? Should you breastfeed past the frist year?
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5 Answers
According to the research I have done, it is beneficial to breast feed your baby for as long as your are capable of doing so. As I read even if it for the first 4 months it is considered very good for the health of your baby.
Vicki
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With so many conflicting answers it is challenging for any new mom to know how long.
I encourage all moms to at least start breastfeeding as it is best for your baby! No formula can duplicate what "mother nature" has given you.
How long? Each mom and baby are "unique" so only you know the answer to that question. We have been given advice from some experts to consider such as:
American Academy of Pediatrics rec- at least one year or for as long as mutually desired by mom and baby.
World Health Organizations rec- at least 2 years and then for as long as mutually desired by mom and baby.
Globally the length of breastfeeding is averages 4.5 years, but USA does not come anywhere near that length of time.
Each family is "unique" and should be treated as such. I would encourage you to gain as much information as possible. Finding a breastfeeding "network" of friends online or attend La Leche League meetings, this group of women have accomplished breastfeeding and are the worlds FOREMOST authority of breastfeeding information. You can find a local La Leache League group @ lalecheleague.org.
Relax and enjoy your baby! Let your baby guide you on the length of breastfeeding.
I think the answer is for as long as you and your baby are comfortable doing so. I breastfed all 3 of my kids past the first year and the first two weaned fairly easily when they were ready. My third is now 16 months and still going. I'm happy to do it so it is not a problem. If you are uncomfortable your baby will sense your stress so it's probably not a good idea. But it is good for your baby so as long as you can do it, why not?
The research I have read indicated that breastfeeding for at least 9 months had an impact on increasing IQ. Anything after that did not further impact IQ, but was not detrimental and has obvious health and bonding benefits.
Hope this helps!
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My doctor and the ped. said that the first month is the most important to get the immune system benefits. After this our doctors said that if we had to stop it wouldnt be a big problem because some of the alternatives to breastfeeding these days are just as good as breastfeeding itself. Just the alternatives dont provide the immune stuff, but most get that in the first month.
~ * Mum to Katie * ~
www.EmsButterflyBoutique.Etsy.com ~ Custom Creations for all.
~ * Mum to Katie * ~
www.EmsButterflyBoutique.Etsy.com ~ Custom Creations for all.
National Pediatric Society says one year minimum. La Leche league says at least that and intuit what you and baby need. When possible.
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