Is It Time To Stop Breastfeeding?

It is usual for any mother to want to breastfeed their newborn. However, by the time your baby celebrates his/her 1st birthday, you may feel the need to supplement or completely stop breastfeeding. There are many reasons why moms have to make the big switch from breastfeeding to formula. However, the transition does not need to be a complicated matter, and we want to look at some of the best ways to make the switch.

When to Switch to Infant Formula

Most medical experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. While this would be the ideal situation, it is not possible in most cases, and the baby formula has to be introduced earlier than six months. There are so many reasons why moms may have to move from breastfeeding to formula sooner than they would love to. Besides the demands of life, you may realize that your baby is not getting enough to keep them full and thus the need to supplement the breast milk with baby formula.

When the time comes, you need to be sure that you are making the change correctly. As a mom, you are looking out for your baby's best interests, and you should not feel guilty about this. If you can feed your baby exclusively for six months on breast milk, that would be good. However, if, like most moms, you have to introduce formula, here is the best way to go about it.

Best Way to Move from Breastfeeding To Formula

If you believe it is time to move from breastfeeding to formula, there are three approaches to the new change.

There are three main methods for introducing your baby to formula.

1. Partial Weaning: This is one of the best ways to achieve a smooth transition. In this case, you will continue to breastfeed the baby and also introduce formula as a supplement. Take time to sample several formulas before finding the right one for your baby.

2. Gradual Weaning: If you plan to stop breastfeeding in the coming weeks, gradual weaning is the way to go. This means that the baby will continue breastfeeding, with the volumes reducing with each passing day. Eventually, they will be able to move swiftly from breastfeeding to formula altogether.

3. Switch: Whereas there are reasons that could force you to stop breastfeeding your baby abruptly and shift them to formula, it is not advisable. In this method, the baby will start taking infant formula the whole time. If you had introduced breast milk in a bottle, the change might be easier to make.

Switching from breastfeeding to formula is not an easy task and may prove to be challenging. You will notice some changes in the baby's digestion, and they may have some reactions. When making the big switch, it is advisable to consult your doctor to keep the baby safe and healthy at all times. If there are any complications, you should see a pediatrician right away.