27 Sep 2010 No Comments
On Track to Weaning Successfully
For the past three months, I’ve been slowly weaning the Small Fry from breast feeding and I think it’s almost a success! Three months ago, I thought I wasn’t producing much milk anymore but I actually had more than enough for the Small Fry.
Quite a few people explained to me that the best way to wean is to literally disappear during nursing times. So during the bedtime routine, I should leave the house but it started to occur to me that weaning means that this wonderful cuddle time with my baby will go away.
As much as I wanted my boobs back, it is honestly sad to me to think that my baby boy won’t lay there resting and nursing while I look into his eyes, talking to him and telling him how much I love him. So instead of disappearing during nursing times, I cuddled with him and offered him the bottle instead of the breasts. Sometimes he’ll take it, but he’ll refuse it most of the time.
Since he is almost one year old, I think he’s actually getting ready to let go of the breastfeeding. It’s been 3 days since I breastfed him, needless to say, my breasts are getting a little engorged. It’s not as bad though and I am so glad that I didn’t rush it or force it (like cold turkey) and just followed my little guy’s own pace.
Weaning your baby can be difficult but it is part of the natural breastfeeding experience. It doesn’t have to be a time of unhappiness for you or your baby. If done gradually, and with love, weaning can be a positive experience for both you and your little one.
I’ve truly enjoyed nursing. Yes, it’s been a lot of work, but every second has been worth it.