When are you going to stop nursing that baby?

» Carey_1 - Pressure to Stop Breastfeeding

I am so glad I came across your article. My baby just turned one and is showing no signs whatsoever that he is ready to wean. I get so much pressure from my inlaws and husbands side of the family. My sisters who are moms give me lots of support and nurse themselves but they are far away. My Mother in Law especially will make a comet every chance she gets. Saying how old he is and I need to let go and stop basically saying that I am doing something strange and that he is to old. Since her pressuring me with her coments my husband has been starting to ask when are you going to stop nursing and it seams to bother him now. It didn't till he heard his mother say things. I love to nurse it is so bonding and my baby loves to nurse also. I wish there was more support. I would be resentful If I stopped nursing because of my husband pressuring me. I told him that he has backed off for now. Any advise or support would be great. THanks Carey

-- posted by Carey_1

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» Laraliz - Re: Pressure to Stop Breastfeeding

In response to message posted by Carey_1:

Carey!
Thanks for reading my article! I'm so glad that you found it helpful. One thing that you might mention to your in-laws and mother is that the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for AT LEAST the first TWO (yes, that's 2) years of a child's life. Not only do the benefits of increased immunity through breastmilk continue the entire time you are breastfeeding -- but the proteins in breastmilk are highly digestable and able to provide superior nutrition to infants and toddlers reducing the need for INFERIOR proteins found in cow's milk, goat's milk, soy milk, "formula" or other dairy/non dairy sources. If necessary (if it gets ugly, that is) it is NOT rude to mention that it is not really their business. I don't know why people are so quick to chastise women who breastfeed and yet have nothing to say about women who were perfectly capable of breastfeeding but didn't want the "inconvenience" and therefore forced their children to drink "formula" in it's place. It's puzzling to me. Well, you are doing what's best for you and your son -- and I commend you for it! Keep in close contact with your sisters and any friends who support you. Try talking to your husband about why you are allowing your son to continue breastfeeding -- for the added immunity to common childhood illnesses, to allow him an easier and less traumatic transition to a diet of all solid foods, and because you do not feel inconvenienced by your baby's need for nutrition and comfort. Ask your husband to explain why he does not want you to continue -- come to a compromise -- say you will talk again in 2 or 3 months and see how things are going -- but don't pressure your child to go "cold turkey" if you can avoid it!

Blessings to you and your family! You are a great Mama! Keep up the good work!

Love,

-- posted by Laraliz

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