Breastfeeding: When Baby Doesn't Want to Stop
Topic Overview
Sometimes a mother wants to stop breastfeeding, but her baby shows signs of wanting to continue. If possible, continue breastfeeding 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 breastfeed or between breastfeedings. 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 breastfed 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 wean 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.
Credits
Current as of: September 8, 2021
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: John Pope MD - Pediatrics
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Current as of: September 8, 2021