How Long Should You Breastfeed?

For the most benefit for you and your baby, aim for a year or longer

Fewer than 16 percent of mothers breastfeed for a year or longer, as the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends. Yet long-term nursing pays off in healthful dividends for both mother and baby.

“The longer you nurse, the lower your risk for breast cancer and type 2 diabetes,” says pediatrician Rima Strassman, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. Breastfeeding beyond a year also may protect your baby from infections, as breast milk grows richer in immunity-boosting antibodies over time.

For these reasons, certified lactation consultant Beth Kushner-Giovenco, R.N., breastfed her second son, Jack, until he naturally weaned around his third birthday. “I have a family history of type 2 diabetes,” she says. “Between Jack and my first son, Ryan, I nursed a total of five years. According to the research, that should reduce my diabetes risk by 75 percent.”

Strassman, who nursed her sons until ages 1 and 2 and her twins for 16 months, encourages women to breastfeed as long as they enjoy it. Most children self-wean between ages 1 and 4, so don’t worry that you’ll never break them of the habit. If, on the other hand, your child starts biting, you feel self-conscious nursing a toddler or you simply need to end the practice, it’s time to wean.

To do so gently and naturally, try the “don’t ask, don’t offer” technique. Discourage breastfeeding gradually by changing your routine at common nursing times. For example, ask your partner to put your toddler to bed instead of doing it yourself. Avoid sitting in your nursing chair or other locations that trigger the child’s urge. If these efforts don’t deter your child, offer juice or milk before the breast. Kushner-Giovenco’s son Jack stopped nursing during a family vacation to Disney World, when he was too busy and distracted to think about it.

“I know I made the right decision for my children,” Kushner-Giovenco says. “In deciding when to wean, don’t feel pressured by what others want. Look deep inside and do what works for you and your child.”

Want to Know More about common breastfeeding myths or for a list of breastfeeding classes and support groups, click above.

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