I don't know why, but it seems like whenever it comes time to wean a baby, I get complete amnesia.
Although I know I have weaned before, I can't quite remember at what point I got the guts to do so. I also draw a blank when it comes to what exactly "my methods" were during the weaning process. All I remember is that at some point, I got enough gusto and the determination to "go for broke" when it came to keeping a large toddler from hanging off my breasts!
Anne Smith, a Breastfeeding Basics writer, explains;
Webster’s Dictionary defines weaning as “accustoming a young mammal to take food otherwise than by nursing.” Although this event may be very cut and dried in the animal world, for humans the process of weaning is much more complicated, but only because we make it that way. Weaning your baby is part of the natural breastfeeding experience. It doesn’t have to be a time of unhappiness for you or your baby. If done “gradually, and with love” (the La Leche League motto), weaning can be a positive experience for both you and your little one.
That sounds real simple, doesn't it? None of my weaning experiences have gone that smoothly. My experiences usually involve the "crying it out method" to some degree. It seems like allowing children to self-wean would be a much easier route. However, I am usually too pregnant, weak, and exhausted, to wait.
At this point, I am not pregnant. However, I could be classified under the "weak and exhausted" category. So, I am about ready to wean my sweet Halle.
Do you remember when you weaned your babies? Was it ugly? Was it easy? Feel free to share your wisdom and experiences in the comments section!
I would have to say that none of my experiences would be considered lovely. I LOVED nursing but must say when it came to weaning I HATED it. I would say just buckle down and go for it. It will be over before you know it.
ReplyDeleteI started the process both times with night weaning first. Though I hear that's hardest...I needed good sleep but wasn't ready to completely wean.
ReplyDeleteThe first time I went away on a retreat for three days and just didn't nurse anymore.
I'm in the process for the second time and I must say, weaning a toddler takes it to another level! I haven't "buckled down" yet because its been exhausting.
So, I look forward to getting some more tips from you!
I gradually weaned my children. Around 15-18 months or so I would nurse three times a day. First thing in the morning, before naptime, and before bedtime.
ReplyDeleteAround two I cut it to morning and night, and eventually to just morning, to just snuggling up in the morning. The main thing I did was just re-direct them to something else when they wanted to nurse.
I don't remember it being a hard process, because it was gradual. Honestly, I enjoyed nursing as much as they did, but sometimes did get weary of it, which is why I stuck to certain times of the day.
I think gradual is best, redirecting them to another activity when they ask for it, and gently saying no.
It was tough but I lay down next to her at night with a blanket tightly bound over my chest and just held her...and yes, she cried and cried. It was hard. (nights were our last weaning sessions). After night #2 she realized that mommy's blanket wasn't coming off, but that I would hold her and let her fall asleep really close to me. By night 3, her new expectation was sleeping close to mom rather than nursing. So it was a trade situation, and it worked within 3 days.
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