Extended Breastfeeding: How Long Should I Nurse My Child For?

Whether you’re just beginning your breastfeeding journey or have been feeding your little one for a while, you might wonder: how long should I breastfeed?

The World Health Organisation recommend that mothers exclusively breastfeed until six months of age. Beyond six months, they recommend continuing breastfeeding for two years or beyond, alongside a wide range of nutritious complementary foods.

We understand that not all women can - or wish to - breastfeed for this long, for many different reasons. We don’t want any women to feel pressure to breastfeed for longer than possible or appropriate for them. But there are ongoing health benefits associated with breastfeeding, and that’s what we’re going to discuss in this article.

Breastfeeding doesn’t come naturally to all women. For many, there are sore nipples, latching issues and other challenges.How long you breastfeed comes down to many factors, some you have control over and some you don't. Some women give themselves a goal of six months, but by the time they reach this milestone, breastfeeding feels comfortable and familiar, and they’re happy to continue. Others find that stopping earlier is the right decision for them

As time ticks along to 12 months, or even 24 months, women start to wonder when they are supposed to stop. There’s no set birthday when you need to wean.

The American Academy of Pediatrics supports continued breastfeeding for two years or beyond, for as long as both mother and child wish to continue.

Ultimately, the decision is yours.

Let's explore the benefits of extended breastfeeding and why breastmilk continues to be valuable well beyond your baby's first birthday.

Benefits of Extended Breastfeeding

Nutrition

The power of breastmilk is genuinely remarkable. As your baby grows and goes through llnesses, your breastmilk composition changes to accommodate their needs. For example, when your baby has a cold, when their saliva makes contact with your nipples, signals are sent to the mother, informing her to produce antibodies to help fight the cold off. These antibodies are then passed to the baby through breastmilk.

Another example is the fat and water content of your breastmilk. On a really hot day, breastmilk will change composition to have a higher water content to help hydrate your little one. Alternatively, If bub is going through a growth spurt and feeding lots, your milk will change to be higher in fat.

Previously, people used to believe that breastmilk lost its nutritional value at around six months when food is introduced. But more recent research shows that your breastmilk retains its nutrition quality and this amazing ability to change for the entire duration of breastfeeding. 

That’s right - even beyond two years, breastmilk can continue to provide nourishment and immune protection for your little one.

Bonding

There are many ways to bond with your baby, and finding closeness with bub is different for all parents. But many women say that the bond created while breastfeeding is something extra special. The quiet nights spent feeding, just the two of you, or the afternoon cuddle on the couch while you both take a moment to relax can become treasured parts of your routine.

Breastfeeding can sometimes feel like a superpower; it’s often a way to settle a baby instantly. And women often report that they feel anxious about weaning as they will no longer have a sure-fire way to get their little one back to sleep or comfort them when they need it. But, if you wean gradually, you will find other methods that work to settle bub.

Ongoing Health Benefits for Mum and Bub

We’ve spoken about breastmilk’s ongoing nutritional value, but its benefits don’t stop there.

Breastmilk continues to provide antibodies and other protective components during the second year and beyond. When your little one is unwell and less interested in food, breastfeeding can also provide comfort, fluid and nourishment.

Breastfeeding overall has been associated with a reduced risk of several childhood illnesses and health conditions, including ear infections, gastrointestinal infections, asthma and type 1 diabetes.

And the benefits don’t just relate to bub; there are also advantages for the mother. Breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and type 2 diabetes.

Breastfeeding also uses extra energy, but weight changes vary from mum to mum. Some women lose weight while breastfeeding, while others find their weight stays the same. Nourishing yourself and looking after your wellbeing remain important throughout your journey.

Concerns about extended breastfeeding?

Social acceptance can be one of the worries families have regarding extended breastfeeding. Some people may make unhelpful comments about a child being "too old" for breastmilk.

However, breastfeeding your toddler or older child is a normal and natural part of motherhood. Continuing for two years or beyond is consistent with international recommendations, for as long as both you and your child wish to continue. You don’t need to justify a decision that is working for your family.

Some parents worry that extended breastfeeding may lead to excessive attachment, but research shows this isn’t the case. In fact, it’s associated with positive emotional development for both mother and child, fostering a strong, healthy bond.

How Can In Shape Mummy Help Me on my Breastfeeding Journey?

The In Shape Mummy Health Shake for Breastfeeding Mums  is specially formulated to support your breastfeeding journey.

It gives you a nutritional boost with plant-based protein, 25 vitamins and minerals, probiotics and digestive enzymes, alongside organic milk thistle, flaxseeds and superfoods, to help you meet your increased nutritional needs while breastfeeding and getting back in shape.

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The Bottom Line

There's no magic age when breastfeeding suddenly stops being beneficial.

Whether you breastfeed for six months, twelve months, two years or beyond, your breastfeeding journey is personal and every drop is beneficial.

And whether you decide to continue or wean, the most important thing is finding what works for you and your child.

Remember that your needs matter too, mama.

Looking for more breastfeeding tips? Read our guide on How to Boost Your Milk Supply Naturally.