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The Breastfeeding
Resource Center (BRC)
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committed to providing
expert clinical and educational breastfeeding services. BRC is a 501(c)(3) corporation eligible for tax-deductible donations.

When Do I Wean?

Most pregnant women search for information on pregnancy, childbirth, feeding choices, and parenting.  Well, one piece of information is always consistant.  Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby.  When you're curious to know how long you "should" breastfeed, it's sensible to look to health experts for advice.  The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, then continued breastfeeding with the addition of complimentary foods until at least one year.  The World Health Organization (WHO) agrees, with the exception that they believe mothers should nurse for at least two years for optimal health.  Why then, are mothers asked the following questions from friends, family, and at times even healthcare professionals:

How long do you plan on doing THAT?
You're going to stop when he gets teeth, right?
He's a little old for that isn't he?
When are you going to stop doing that and switch him to formula?

Well, I want everyone to be reminded of the AAP and WHO guidelines and look below at what breastfeeding looks like at various ages that are RECOMMENDED for the baby's health!

Newborn

Early Months


Four to Six Months... still should be exclusively breastfeeding...


Six to Nine Months


Over Nine Months... still recommended by the AAP and WHO!  This is normal and healthy!