Stopping Breastfeeding

[Vikkers]

HiI have a nearly 22mth old and I'm looking to stop breastfeeding. I am struggling with this as she knows what she wants when she wants it. She will tug on my top and ask for "booboo". We have struggled with bottle feeding. We have tried distractions. I very rarely get time to myself and this is having an impact on my mental and physical wellbeing as have other health conditions.

Just wondered if anyone else has been in my shoes and can offer support?

I can't take anymore sleepless nights . I know it's comfort feeding but I don't know how to break it.

Victoria

[Liezemoderator]

Dear Victoria

It sounds like things are tricky for you at the moment and that you have tried several things to stop breastfeeding and you have done amazing to continue for as long as you have been.

I am not sure whether you are aware of this website but will include a link for you to look at.

laleche.org.uk/bottles-and-...

You can also try to introduce a cup, get her to pick her own cup or try different bottles for example one with a straw in it etc. Try and offer water and you can make this more fun for example put ice or fruit in the water but the link will also make other suggestions on how to try and stop breastfeeding. I hope this is helpful for you. If you little one wakes up during the night and wants breastfeeding, try and offer water instead.

You can also try and cut out one feed at a time and gradually reduce this.

Best wishes

Liezemoderator

[Vikkers in reply to Liezemoderator]

Thank you for your response.Yes it's a very trying time at the moment.

I hadn't heard of that website but will definitely take a look.

I've changed bottles and have tried using a cup which she will take to. But when she wants boob she will tug and do anything to get access to it.

I will see what the website offers and keep persevering.

Many thanks

Victoria

[Vikki-Moderator Moderator]

I remember this well with my own son. Well done for going for so long. That's an amazing thing you've done. Being consistent and persevering is the key but that can be so hard in the middle of the night when you're tired and it's so tempting to give in because you know a feed will settle them. Is there anyone else that could settle her at night with water as Leize suggested to break the association?

[Vikkers in reply to Vikki-Moderator]

Thanks for your reply.I have my partner and we tried her sleeping with him and I slept on the sofa and that worked for 2 days. Til she realised that's where I was. He was able to settle her and give her water. But now she knows who she wants to settle her so will play up so much for my partner he gives in and I have to take over.