Let’s talk about weaning. Weaning is the winding down of the breastfeeding/ lactation process, and looks different for each family. A parent may feel ready to wean, but may not know what steps to take, and may feel too afraid to reach out for help. At The Breastfeeding Center, we understand that you and your baby’s journey is uniquely yours, and we are here to help at whatever part of your journey you are on, including weaning. Parents often try to quit “cold turkey,” but that is not recommended and can be physically and emotionally taxing for all involved. This is an ending that deserves a transition for both yourself and your baby if at all possible. Weaning is generally easiest when both the parent and baby are ready and it happens organically. However, if you choose to be more proactive when weaning, it is important to ensure that you take a careful approach to ensure that you continue to meet your baby’s needs for both nutrition and comfort, and also to keep your breasts healthy as you go through the process.

Considerations for baby

Depending on your baby’s age at the time of weaning, you may need to find other ways to feed and soothe your baby. If they are comfortable with a bottle and will take formula, then you are in good shape. If your baby has not had formula, remember that it does not taste the same as breastmilk, and some babies may not take to it right away. If your baby is over 1 year of age, they can get all of their nutrients from other food sources. Additionally, many babies find comfort at the breast and spend time nursing to soothe themselves when fussy, tired or not feeling well. Consider what other “tools” you have to meet your baby’s needs. What can you substitute for the breast? Introducing a “lovey,” extra snuggles or even a snack may address some of these needs. Other strategies for weaning an older baby or toddler include: substitution, distraction, postponement of nursing, shortening of nursing sessions and change in routine.

Tips for gentle weaning

There is no one way to wean; it is a very personal process. However, weaning is most effectively done gradually when possible. Once you’ve decided to stop breastfeeding/pumping completely or partially, come up with a game plan. It can be enticing to quit completely, or use old methods like binding the breast to dry the milk. These methods have been proven to be outdated, painful, and may lead to clogged ducts, and inflammation of the breast, or mastitis. Additionally, we want to always remember to treat the breast/chest with care. If you do feel pain, or a firm and tender area in your breast, or have any additional issues or questions, contact your lactation consultant.

We recommend gradually reducing the allotted time for feedings or pumping. Choose one breastfeeding or pumping session and shorten it, or reduce the volume of milk you express. By taking a small amount of milk out of the breasts, but leaving some behind your body will get the signal that you are not demanding as much milk, and will start to down-regulate milk production. After several days, you can then drop the breastfeeding or pumping session. Once you’ve dropped a feed, you may need to express a little milk from your breasts for your own comfort. Don’t express a whole feeding worth of milk; just enough to take the pressure off and give yourself some comfort. You are effectively letting your brain and body know over time that you no longer need to make as much milk as before, and eventually at all.

Comfort measures while weaning

Wear a supportive bra with nursing pads. Your bra should NOT be tight or compress your breasts. If you’re struggling to find a bra that feels good for you during pregnancy, or postpartum, book a bra fitting with us at The Center!

Ibuprofen as prescribed by your physician to manage inflammation in the breasts.
Pump/express to comfort as needed, but generally leave the breasts full.
Ice/cold can be used intermittently, and will help reduce swelling and discomfort.

Emotional care while weaning

Hormonal fluctuations occur during weaning, and for some this shift can contribute to a sense of loss or sadness. Hormones like oxytocin and prolactin are vital and elevated while breastfeeding. Oxytocin is the feel good hormone - promoting feelings of bonding and a sense of calm relaxation. Without that daily dose of these hormones you may feel an increased sense of loss, feeling down, anxiety, irritability, or even depression. These emotions are real and they matter. It is important to feel your emotions as they come during this time, and to reach out for support if needed.

The team at The Breastfeeding for Greater Washington is here to support you through this process. Please reach out to schedule an appointment with one of our IBCLCs if you need help with your own weaning journey.

Meet the Blog team

Angel Escate, Program Coordinator,

Angel Escate is our blog manager/writer/editor and one of the program coordinators on the administrative team for The Breastfeeding Center. Angel has a passion for helping birthing parents and their families meet their goals throughout their perinatal journey, helping them to feel heard and cared for and connected to a community! At the Breastfeeding Center, you can find her creating content for our blog, ensuring the care of our clients, and maintaining programming for the longevity of The Center. Outside the office her favorite pastimes include a bit of nature, a good book, or spending time with her beloved family.

Gina Boling IBCLC, Clinical Director

Gina Boling has been an integral part of the blog’s process since the beginning, offering feedback and clinical support/expertise to ensure each post is as accurate as possible for our clients. In her everyday, Gina sees clients in our DC office. Gina provides practical, caring and non-judgmental support on your breastfeeding journey. She understands the early days of parenting can be overwhelming and will help you develop a plan that works for you to help you meet YOUR goals. Gina has advanced training in oral function, and is skilled at working with families who are having difficulty with latch, nipple pain, slow weight gain, and low milk supply. As a mother of twins, she especially enjoys working with parents of multiples.

A Gentle Guide to Weaning