Learning how to breastfeed can seem like the biggest challenge you have ever had to face. Weaning baby off the breast, however, can be even more challenging. This can be even more difficult if your baby tends to breastfeed not only for food but also in place of a teddy, security blanket or pacifier/ dummy.

There are no set ways to stop breastfeeding but here are some things to try and keep in mind;

• Gradually drop daytime feeds or extend the time between feeds to break the breastfeeding routine for baby and slowly reduce your body’s milk production.
• If after 4 - 6 weeks you have not made any progress then maybe the time was not right either for yourself or baby. Do not cause either of you further distress at this point. Go back to your normal routine and begin again when you are both ready.
• Do not stop too abruptly or you may get engorged breasts, infections and feel depressed due to the rapid drop in hormone levels
• If baby is under 12 months move onto baby formula. If over 12 months move to cow’s milk
• Remember that most baby’s will get a great deal of comfort from breast feeding so keep those hugs coming
• When it is time to feed offer a cup or bottle instead of breastfeeding. Do not offer the breast but if baby is getting distressed do not refuse it.
• You will always come across people who have very prescriptive views on breastfeeding and no one view will be the same. Once you have made the decision to stop breastfeeding and are happy with your decision do not allow anyone to make you feel bad about it and do not listen to old wife’s tales about the supposed damage you will do your baby. You will not turn your baby into a serial killer if you decide to stop breastfeeding before the age of 1!
• If your baby seems to just not like drinking from a baby bottle try using a beaker with a soft spout or a sippy cup instead
• Allow yourself several weeks for the weaning process and if you have a few unsuccessful starts to not beat yourself up about it.