   
 |
|
 Ask Dr. Jana
Breastfeeding A Toddler | | | QUESTION | | | Dear Dr. Jana,
How do you weigh societal pressure against LaLeche League advice against your own upbringing to make an informed decision about when to stop breastfeeding a toddler? — Debra-Lynn in Stow, Ohio | | | ANSWER |
June 5, 2000 | | | Dear Debra-Lynn,
There are many factors which can influence a mother's decision on whether to breastfeed or not, and for how long. Worldwide, children are often breastfed until they are two or three years old (and even older). In America, women tend to quit breastfeeding much sooner, often around a year of age; a two year-old being breastfed is not a common sight, and actually can bring a lot of stares. In addition, many of us were brought up during a period of time when breastfeeding was not particularly popular and its many benefits yet to be known, which means that our own mother's and grandmother's may not have had any experience with (or may even disapprove of) breastfeeding.
Many mothers ask me if they are causing their toddlers to be too "attached" by allowing them to breastfeed as toddlers. There are reassuring studies which suggest that your toddler will not grow up to be any less independent or have any more difficulty with separation issues simply because of being breastfed as a toddler.
I think what is most important for you is to decide for yourself how comfortable you and your toddler are with breastfeeding. Many people seem to think that La Leche League is an organization that encourages women to breastfeed for many years and at any cost. In general, I think of this group as a source of support for all breastfeeding mothers and I agree with them that how long you breastfeed should be up to you and your baby, with no artificial minimum (or maximum) amount of time imposed on you. Undoubtedly, society (and each of our upbringings) will play a role in the choices we make, but you can make the ultimate decision about what is right for you.— by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P. |
|
| | 
|