Breastfeeding: Weaning & 6 Nursing Triggers

As I mentioned in my World Breastfeeding Week post, sadly Luna and I's breastfeeding journey has come to a close with her just turning 16 months old.  It's a bittersweet, somewhat sad time for me.

These past 4 to 6 weeks have been full of transitions for her and I, as she has weaned off breastfeeding with only a little nudge from me at the end and is spending most nights in her crib next to our bed rather than in our bed with us.

Some days we're both a little cranky and frustrated because we just want to revert back to how it used to be, but we've already moved past it so we must figure out new ways to manage.

When I get home from work, for example, I make her peanut butter crackers and apple juice.  This was the last feeding session for her to drop.  The only other time we sometimes struggle with out new sans breastfeeding life is at afternoon nap (usually close to the time I get home from work, also).

At night we both sometimes fall asleep with me rubbing her back or her holding my hand/finger.  If she does wake up in the night, she gets some mommy and daddy cuddles and spend the rest of the night with us.

It seems like yesterday when she was born, but we are watching her grow everyday! If you and your child are going through the weaning process, here's 6 things to consider when trying to figure out triggers for your child's nursing.

1. Is she hungry?

Try to figure out if your child is hungry.  If she is, give her a healthy snack to fill her belly so she doesn't feel the need to nurse.

2. Is she thirsty?

She might need something to drink, so offer some water or juice.

3. Does she need cuddles?

She might need extra attention during the weaning process, even if it's partially initiated by her.  Offer extra love and attention and consider babywearing.

4. Is she tired?

If she is tired and used to nursing to sleep, it might be extra hard at first to find other soothing methods.  Find something that works for you.  Try cuddling, babywearing, back rubbing, etc.

5. Is she sick or teething?

Sick and teething children want extra comfort and might feel a stronger desire to nurse.  If this happens during the weaning process, you can consider alternative ways to make her feel better.

6. Is it habit?

Routine is routine and your child might be used to nursing after this, before that, or whatever.  Switch up your daily schedules or, better yet, start new routines to help keep both your minds off other stuff.  Getting out of the house can help, too!

What triggers your child's desire to nurse?  Did your child self-wean? What was the hardest part about weaning for you?

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