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Extended Breastfeeding

post #1 of 6
5/21/08 at 9:36am
Thread Starter 
I just came across a video on Youtube where a mother was still breastfeeding her 8 year old. While the feedings were not as frequent, if the girl asked, she would allow her to do so. And apparently many people agree that extended breastfeeding can strengthen the immune system and have other positive effects.

I already know I plan on breastfeeding, but is extended breastfeeding really that good for your child? I probably won't breastfeed up until 8 years old but I'm starting to re-think my original "One year and thats it." plan. I don't have kids yet, but this is something my SO and I have discussed already.

So how long did you breastfeed and do you support extended breastfeeding. When do you think is a good time to stop?
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post #2 of 6
5/21/08 at 9:48am

Re: Extended Breastfeeding

It's a personal choice.

With that being said, if I could have BF until a year, I would have. After one year, your child should be eating table foods and should be able to maintain their nutritional needs without BF. Others may have other opinions, but that is mine. You could speak with your OB, ped, lactation consultant or La Leche League for information. I would get all the info possible, check it out then make my own decision. Do NOT let other people bully you with THEIR agenda. You decide what is right for you and your baby - only you know that.

My take on it is this... if your child can come up to you and ask for BF, they are TOO OLD. If you are BF your 8 year old, then there are deeper issues that need attention.

But again, that is my personal opinion. Good luck with your information search & have a great day!
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post #3 of 6
5/21/08 at 10:19am

Re: Extended Breastfeeding

The World Health Organiation reccommends until age two and that's what I have gone with. In countries without reliable clean water and food (IMO) longer is advisable. However, eight is a bit long even for my liberal standards. Unless they get teerh very young, a full mouth of teeth is beyond the limit where I would want to go. But that's me.
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post #4 of 6
5/21/08 at 10:35am

Re: Extended Breastfeeding

I have to agree with both Kim and Lenora. I breast fed my last two till they weaned themselves, the longest being a little over a year. My feelings are this: If I would find it strange and ridiculous to see a child with a bottle in there mouth, I would also feel the same about a boob.
Nutritionally the child will be getting what they need through food and drink by the age of two.
If you still want the child to drink breast milk at a latter age....put it in a cup! I personally would not have my two year old running around with a bottle...at that age they are perfectly capable of drinking from a cup(unless of coarse there are other mental/physical issues involved), so I wouldn't have them still nursing either. The comfort/security factor can still be gotten through cuddling, holding, special songs or "lovies", it doesn't have to involve either a bottle or breast.
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post #5 of 6
5/21/08 at 4:21pm

Re: Extended Breastfeeding

I nursed all 3 of mine .. my youngest for 31 months. I believe no set time is correct .. you and your child will make that decision together.
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post #6 of 6
5/22/08 at 12:41am

Re: Extended Breastfeeding

I agree with Kim. I breastfed Emily for 13 months. Her pediatrician is very pro-breastfeeding, and he said that the best benefits are in the first year. Anything after that is a personal choice, but no super benefits for health or the immune system come from it after the first year.
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