How to Stop Breastfeeding

Time to wean your baby or toddler? Button your shirt for good with the help of these steps.

Instructions

: Consult your pediatrician if you must wean suddenly, and for advice on your baby's diet.
Step 1: Wean gradually Stop breastfeeding gradually, knowing that the process could take weeks or months.
Step 2: Decide whether to bottle-feed Decide whether to give your baby a bottle. If they're less than one year old, they still need pumped breast milk or formula and may need to suck on a bottle to be soothed.
TIP: If your breasts become painfully engorged due to skipped feedings, use a warm compress or let warm water run over your breasts in the shower.
Step 3: Replace breastfeeding with bottle feedings Replace breastfeeding with bottle feedings one feeding at a time. Once your baby consistently accepts the bottle at one feeding, add another.
TIP: Many babies who have been breastfed are reluctant to take a bottle from their mothers. Have someone else offer the bottle.
Step 4: Offer toddlers a cup or snack Offer toddlers a cup of pumped breast milk, formula, whole milk, or water; or a snack of solid foods instead of breastfeeding.
Step 5: Change your routine Change a toddler's routine to avoid the things they associate with breastfeeding. If you had a habit of breastfeeding in a rocking chair, read her stories on the couch instead.
Step 6: Offer extra cuddles Offer extra cuddles and special time with your baby or toddler. Let them know that you're still there for them, even if you're no longer breastfeeding.
FACT: Did you know? In theory, men are capable of breastfeeding.