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Wondering when to stop breastfeeding? The decision is personal and unique to each family. Let's talk through signs of weaning and gentle tips for a smooth transition for you and your child
Summary
1How long should you breastfeed?
The World Health Organization (WHO) and many other health organisations recommend starting breastfeeding within the first hour after birth…
2When to stop breastfeeding
The decision to stop breastfeeding is deeply personal, with no universal ‘right’ time. Try not to feel guilty or ashamed about your choices…
3Signs your baby is ready to start solids
From the age of six months, you can start introducing your baby to solid foods, but they’ll still get most of their calories and nutrients from…
Breastfeeding can be one of life’s most rewarding – and, at times, challenging – journeys. From that first latch to those quiet bonding moments, it’s only natural to wonder how long you should continue.
Is there a perfect time to wean, or can you keep going until your little one decides it’s time for change? Rest assured, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer – only what works best for you and your baby. Let’s dive into the who, what, when and why of breastfeeding to help you make this choice with confidence and ease.
How long should you breastfeed?
The World Health Organization (WHO) and many other health organisations recommend starting breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and exclusively breastfeeding (breast milk only) for the first six months.1-5
During this time, breast milk alone supplies all the nutrients your baby needs to grow and develop.2 It may also provide a whole host of health benefits for both you and baby, from improved protection against common childhood infections to potentially regulating your mood (thanks to the release of oxytocin) and alleviating stress.6,7
At around six months, WHO recommends introducing solid foods while continuing breastfeeding, which can last for two years or more if it suits both the parent and child.1-3
Extended breastfeeding or natural term breastfeeding is common in many cultures, and continuing for as long as it feels right can feel empowering.8-11
When to stop breastfeeding
The decision to stop breastfeeding is deeply personal, with no universal ‘right’ time. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels best for you and your child.12
Some mothers stop breastfeeding before six months for various reasons and transition their baby to infant formula, while others continue for a year before introducing cow’s milk at 12 months.12,13 Some care-givers continue breastfeeding into toddlerhood and beyond.3
For some, combined feeding (offering both breast milk and formula) works well, or they may choose to pump breast milk so that family members or caregivers can help with feeds – especially helpful when returning to work or education.14,15
It’s important to remember that every feeding journey is unique, and what matters most is what feels right for you and your family. Try not to feel guilty or ashamed about your choices, whether that means stopping breastfeeding when you’re ready or continuing for as long as you feel comfortable.16,17
Studies show that women choose to stop breastfeeding for various reasons, including concerns about milk supply, baby’s weight gain, returning to work or education and issues such as sore nipples, engorged breasts or a lack of family and social support.13,18,19
Many mothers report strong emotions surrounding their breastfeeding experience, sharing their feelings of guilt, regret or sadness that they were unable to breastfeed their baby longer.20
If you’re considering stopping breastfeeding due to any of the above reasons but would like to continue, your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist can offer help and suggest ways to overcome these challenges.21
Signs your baby is ready to start solids
From the age of six months, you can start introducing your baby to solid foods, but they’ll still get most of their calories and nutrients from breast milk or infant formula.22,23
Every child develops differently. Some babies show signs of readiness for weaning, while others may need more time. There are three common signs your baby may be ready to try solids:22
- able to sit up unaided with a steady head
- having an interest in food and the coordination to pick it up and put it in their mouth
- able to hold and swallow food in the mouth without spitting it back out
However, behaviours such as chewing fists, waking up at night more than usual or wanting extra milk feeds are normal. They aren’t necessarily signs that your baby is ready to start solids.22
How to stop breastfeeding
When it’s time to start weaning, a gradual approach often works best for both you and your little one. As your child gradually increases their intake of solid foods, you may notice changes in how frequently and long they breastfeed.24
You can continue to follow their cues, breastfeeding when they show signs of hunger. If they seem less interested in breastfeeding after eating solids, try offering breast milk before other foods to ensure they’re still getting the nutritional benefits of milk. Breast milk remains an important nutrient source even after introducing solids.24
Between 12 and 24 months, your little one’s breastfeeding habits may change. Some continue to rely on breast milk for a significant part of their diet, while others may prefer breastfeeding at specific times, such as in the morning or before bedtime.24 As they breastfeed less often, your milk supply will naturally adjust and decrease over time.25
For many, weaning happens gradually as the child grows and eats more solid food. This gradual approach helps prevent issues such as engorgement and mastitis.26,27
Start by dropping one breastfeeding session at a time over several weeks, perhaps beginning with a daytime feed.28 Replace breastfeeding sessions with cuddles, sharing books or quiet time together to maintain your bond as you both adjust to this new stage.29
Transitioning from breastfeeding to formula
If your baby is under 12 months and you want or need to introduce formula as part of the weaning process, switching gradually can help them adjust to the new taste and texture.12
Your baby will only ever need ‘First’ infant formula until their first birthday.12 Here are some tips to make that transition easier:12,30-32
- start slowly: replace one breastfeeding session a day with formula. It can take approximately 5–7 days for your breasts to adjust to dropping a feed. You can then repeat the process by dropping the next breastfeed
- mix breast milk and formula: mixing a little formula with expressed breast milk can help babies get used to the taste of formula gradually
- consider timing with solids: perhaps start introducing formula around the time your little one begins exploring solid foods at about six months. After 12 months, you can introduce cow’s milk if your child has no cow’s milk protein allergy
Managing your milk supply while weaning
As you reduce breastfeeding sessions, your milk supply will naturally decrease. Gradual weaning helps prevent issues such as breast tenderness and engorgement.27
Here are some helpful tips to manage any discomfort if it happens:27,34,35
- hand express: if you’re experiencing engorgement, express a little milk by hand to relieve pressure. Only hand express a small amount, because expressing too much signals to your body to produce more milk
- use a cold compress for relief: applying a cold compress or chilled cabbage leaves to your breasts may help reduce swelling and provide relief if your breasts are engorged. There isn’t enough evidence to show that this method will reduce milk supply. It can, however, improve comfort by reducing inflammation
- wear supportive bras: a well-fitting bra can help reduce tenderness as your body adjusts
Weaning tips for mothers
Stopping breastfeeding can be a very emotional time – after all, breastfeeding is much more than getting calories into a baby – but it doesn’t end the bond with your baby. Instead, try staying connected through cuddles, new routines and playtime.7,36-40
Finally, remember to take care of yourself. Be kind to yourself as your body and mind adapt at a pace that feels right for you. Talking with other mums or joining a support group may provide comfort and reassurance as you navigate these changes.41
The final say
Breastfeeding is a journey filled with shared moments, nourishment and deep connection. Whether you stop breastfeeding at six months, 12 months or continue for several years, there’s no universal rule.12 The best choice is the one that feels right for you and your little one.
Take your time, and remember that weaning can be easier with small steps, patience and a little support. Weaning doesn’t end your bond with your child. Instead, it opens the door to new ways of connecting and nurturing them.
Want to know which supplements may benefit your health when breastfeeding? Check out our article on the top 10 supplements to take while breastfeeding.
The advice in this article is for information only and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any supplements, treatments or remedies. Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
While we strive for accuracy and balance, please be aware that this article may discuss products available for purchase through Holland & Barrett. Consult a healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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2. WHO. Exclusive breastfeeding for optimal growth, development and health of infants [Internet]. [cited 2024 Oct 26]. Available from: https://www.who.int/tools/elena/interventions/exclusive-breastfeeding
3. WHO. Infant and young child feeding [Internet]. [cited 2024 Oct 26]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infant-and-young-child-feeding
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10. Thompson AJ, et al. “Surely you’re not still breastfeeding”: A qualitative exploration of women’s experiences of breastfeeding beyond infancy in the UK. BMJ Open. 2020;10(5):e035199. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035199
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