The sweet closeness of baby cuddles during feeding sessions is something I treasured with my children but there comes a time when either you or your baby signals that time is coming to a close. I can vividly remember the last time I breastfed my youngest child. I remember exactly where I was, looking down at her sweet face early that morning. She was happy to cuddle for a few seconds but that was all. She wanted to get on with the day. I must have had a feeling it was the last feed and tears streamed down my face.

From birth, our children are gradually becoming more and more independent.

Cutting the umbilical cord is the first step of many in the process of raising our babies to adulthood.

Weaning is another step in our parenting journey of our child’s growing independence. It is the process of replacing breastfeeding and breast milk as a baby's way of receiving complete nutrition, with milk alternatives and complementary foods.

For many mothers, weaning starts with the introduction of solids or normal family foods around 6 months of age or later.

Babies will gradually get more of their nutrition from solid food and less from their mother’s milk. There are so many reasons why you may be weaning sooner than expected or feel that now is the time to wean. Returning to work, a nursing strike, health issues, or a personal need can lead to weaning earlier or faster than is comfortable for mom or baby.

A sudden stop or reduction in milk removal may cause a mom to experience blocked ducts, engorgement, or mastitis, as well as distress for both mom and baby. Instead, try to gradually reduce milk removal every few days with pumping or hand expression. This helps emotionally and physically. Some herbs or medication can be used if you need or choose to decrease your milk supply more quickly. Extra milk can be donated, mixed with baby's food, or used for milk baths. If you have a difficult situation seek support to help you through the process.

Life is full of growth and change, especially in the early months and years of your child’s life. The end of one stage is often replaced by a new stage with new skills and new ways to connect. It is totally understandable to grieve during the weaning process, especially if it was difficult or shorter than you hoped.

Grief is a natural response to the loss of part of your role as a mother.

It's OK to be sad.

It is also OK to be happy to be past this stage.

Be kind to yourself in the process and take some time to celebrate your breastfeeding achievement. Every drop really does make a difference, especially in the early days.

Now your child is growing in maturity and will thrive on more than milk alone just as we are supposed to as we grow in life.

If you need some support or expert help along the way reach out for a consultation today. Contact me and we will make a time to chat.