Breast-Feeding: When Baby Doesn't Want to Stop
Topic Overview
Sometimes a mother wants to stop Reference breast-feeding Opens New Window, but her baby shows signs of wanting to continue. If possible, continue breast-feeding a while longer. If this is not possible, the following suggestions may help you:
- Offer breast milk pumped from your breast, formula, or cow's milk (if your baby is more than 12 months old) in a cup or bottle before you breast-feed or between breast-feedings. Slowly increase the amount in the cup or bottle. If possible, have someone else feed your baby with a bottle or cup.
- If your baby spits out the bottle nipple when first starting to bottle-feed, keep trying. Experiment with different nipple types. It often takes time for a breast-fed baby to get used to an artificial nipple. Or it may be time to use a cup.
- If your baby suddenly refuses to nurse when you are trying to Reference wean Opens New Window gradually, pump your breasts for comfort. Pump less milk from your breasts each day.
- If your weaned baby wants to nurse again, try giving your baby extra hugs and attention instead of going back to the old way of feeding.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference November 4, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Reference Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MD, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics |
|
© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
