For us mums, every breastfeeding experience is unique. The duration of breastfeeding also differs from one mother to the next. We’ve all probably heard that babies should be breastfed until they’re six months or two years old. However, according to News Medical Life Sciences, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has now issued new recommendations encouraging mothers to continue breastfeeding for at least two years.
Anyway, I wasn’t planning to still be breastfeeding my little one, who’s now three years and one month old. I am in the process of weaning her off, but she still nurses when she wakes up in the middle of the night crying. I just don’t have the heart to say no, so I did some research to see if it is really that bad to still be breastfeeding my child at this age.
The Pros of Extended Breastfeeding
While prolonged breastfeeding has been linked to many advantages, it is not necessary for a child to survive. Generally speaking, the longer a mother breastfeeds her child, the more benefits there are for both of them. Several of these upsides include:
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Beneficial for mum’s health
Breastfeeding reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, ovarian cancer, and breast and breast cancer. They can continue to receive these benefits as long as they breastfeed.
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Better for the child’s health
Babies may be able to fight infections thanks to the high antibody content of breast milk. Additionally, it adapts to the infant’s needs by analysing their saliva for information and creating a customised diet that may help guard against infections and guarantee optimum nutrition. Asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), ear infections, diarrhoeal illnesses, respiratory infections, and diabetes are all less common in breastfed babies.
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Good for emotional wellbeing
According to some studies, mothers who breastfeed their infants have lower levels of anxiety, stress, and depression than mothers who give their children formula. Additionally, breastfeeding can promote attachment and reduce stress for both the baby and the parent. When other comfort options, like a pacifier, are not available, soothing a baby who has been breastfed might be simpler.
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Provide easy soothing and comfort
Nursing is very calming for a lot of babies and young children. Some infants nurse until they fall asleep, while others do so when they are afraid or upset. This readily available source of comfort may reduce some of the stress associated with parenting and provide the child with a convenient means of coping with difficult situations.
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Convenient and quick access
Breastmilk is readily available and convenient for breastfeeding mothers whenever their children need to nurse. A parent can also give a child a quick snack and ensure they have access to fluids wherever they are without delaying food or water.
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Provide a nutritional supplement
Breastmilk is a nutritious food source that can be consumed after the first year of life. Parents may find comfort in the fact that breast milk can help supplement gaps in their children’s diet as they experiment with new foods. This is particularly useful for picky eaters.
(Source: MedicalNewsToday)
The Cons of Extended Breastfeeding
Beyond the age of one year, breastfeeding has no negative health effects as long as the child is given sufficient complementary foods. But there might be challenges for people who want to nurse, particularly if they lack social or familial support. Following are a few possible drawbacks:
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Cultural and social stigma
Extended breastfeeding is not regarded as the ‘norm’ in the majority of Western countries. Many people believe that breastfeeding is only permitted until a certain age, even in some Asian countries. If one goes too far, they might experience shame and criticism, inadequate support from their partner or family, and a sense of isolation or judgement from their friends.
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Not enough quality time
It takes time and energy to breastfeed a child. The value of one’s time cannot be overstated, and parents of young children may already find it difficult to find enough time for work, sleep, hobbies, and self-care. Using formula or a bottle to feed an infant can be more practical than other feeding methods.
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Workplace issues
Breastfeeding can be challenging when one works outside the home, particularly if one works long hours. Some people may experience pressure at work to stop nursing or they may need to fight for their right to take breaks to pump.
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Fertility
While breastfeeding can prevent ovulation, this is less likely as the baby gets older. Depending on what your gynaecologist advises, those who want to get pregnant but haven’t had their periods in a while might need to cut back on breastfeeding.
(Source: MedicalNewsToday)
How I Feel While Going Through It
As much as I enjoy the stronger bond that comes from extended breastfeeding, I noticed that my daughter is much more attached than her eldest siblings were when they were her age. Her separation anxiety is also quite severe at times, and she will cry incessantly if she does not see me sitting in front of or near her.
On my end, here are some of the challenges I’ve faced since continuing to breastfeed after three years:
- I’m not getting enough sleep because my child still wakes up a few times in the middle of the night, especially when she’s sick.
- I get tired easily, and nursing on one side at night for a prolonged period makes my body sore.
- I have to pause any work I’m doing when she wants to breastfeed because she will not accept “no” or “later” as an answer.
- It can be stressful because she usually wants me to nurse her when she is hurt or upset because no one else can comfort her.
Find Out If Extended Breastfeeding is for You Before You Decide
If you’re not sure about extended breastfeeding, it’s best to do your research before making a decision. You can also ask around to learn about the experiences of your close friends and family. You should also consider your current state to see if you are prepared.
It’s important to understand that nursing may not be effective for some people, but for others, it can be a healthy, long-term solution that is advantageous to both parents and children. It should be acceptable for someone to continue breastfeeding after a socially acceptable age.
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