Weaning
by Barbara Dehn - 25th October 2007
How do we wean our babies? When do we wean? Whose choice is it? Sometimes mom makes the decision because she has to, sometimes the baby decides, sometimes it is circumstances. I have friends who would still be breastfeeding their high school seniors if it were socially acceptable. I'm just kidding! Seriously, weaning can be hard, as that special connection changes. It can be difficult emotionally and physically, especially if one of you is not ready.
I met a woman this week, who weaned her little guy at 5 months. She had to return to work, and wasn't interested in pumping and traveled so much for work that it just wasn't practical for her. She was perfectly fine with the decision. I met another woman, who traveled just as much, and packed up the pump, and continued breastfeeding for more than a year. And you know what, they are good friends, who don't judge each other. Amazing? Not really. I think we're past the Mommy Wars, where women who make choices that are right for them, don't feel as compelled to criticize other women. I think that we've learned to be supportive of one another no matter what our circumstances are.
It's possible that another woman's shoes might fit me and might look good on me, but it's a lot more likely that I'm comfortable with my own shoes. So back to weaning.....It can be gradual or abrupt. If you're struggling, talk to a lactation consultant or your pediatrician.
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