To wean, or not to wean.

[NewMum]

That is the question.

Hi there.
I just found this site after looking for info on anxiety/depression while weaning.
I've been increasingly moody and having bouts of depression and anxiety for a few months now and just made the connection...

My son is almost 15 months old and we've been gradually weaning for about 3 months at the Dr.'s recommendation. No medical concerns, he just says it's time and that weaning him will help him to sleep through the night.

It's been very difficult for my son, despite the fact that he is a very good eater (enjoys solid foods and regularly drinks cow's milk and juice), and very hard on me, because he seems to still need to breastfeed. Currently I breastfeed him 2-3 times a day, first thing in the morning, and early evening are the usual times. Occasionally, he nurses during the night and rarely, he wants to nurse in the afternoon.

I like the idea of weaning him so that I can have some of my time/space back, but I can't stand the thought of weaning before he is ready. I think this is where my anxiety kicks in. It shouldn't be this hard!!

So from experienced mothers....should I stick to weaning, or wait a little longer?

Thanks for your help and advice.

NewMum

[newmominct]

You should post this on the general board or in the debate board. they get much more traffic and mothers there are extended nursing. I'm sure they will help :)
I would help myself but my guy is only 4 mos and I dont want to mis inform but from what Ive been reading I think most mothers will tell you if you want to keep nursing and your babe does to then you should keep it up! Nursing as long as your LO wants is best!
Good Luck!!

[Rieckah]

Listen to your gut. If you feel that he still needs it, why stop? It certainally won't hurt anything. Neither of my kids, (one bf one formula) slept through the night till after 2.For what that;s worth.

[Jacksmommy]

I would recommend nursing until at least 2 years of age. It's only the AAP that suggests weaning by age 1. Most organizations say 2 years is best.
Weaning does not guarantee sleeping better at night. Often times it doesn't help sleep at all. Babies often wake at night at this age because they are teething. Nursing is an easy way to comfort them back to sleep.
From what you've written, it sounds like your baby is not ready to wean.

[SnackRack]

I know your doctor probably means well, but it is not the doctor's decision on when you wean. It's between you and your baby. I nursed my son until he was 2 years and 2 months and he just stopped nursing one night on his own. I didn't have to do anything.

My daughter, OTOH, is 5-1/2 - yes, years. I am actively weaning her now because I'm over it and I know she will be too once she breaks the habit.

My doctor never told me when to wean my child. It's a personal decision. ITA with trusting your gut on this one. And btw, weaning doesn't guarantee sleeping thru the night. It just doesn't. ;)

Whatever you decide, you will find much support here. Keep us posted.

[NewMum]

Thanks for all the advice. I've been so overly emotional, I haven't been thinking straight. Even DH just told me DS isn't ready (to wean) "and neither are you." I have been doing some relaxation stuff the past couple nights and nursing DS when he "asks." Already I feel less stressed. And DS has been happier than ever!
You gals are wonderful!! = )