Extended Breastfeeding: The Freedom of Personal Choice
The larger a child grows the more a mother will be subjected to the judgment of others, and this can push some to give up on breastfeeding earlier than they otherwise would.
Despite the World Health Organization recommending that breast milk can make up a part of a child’s diet for two years and beyond, it is rare to see Mothers make it past six months in western countries.
But why?
The Myths and Stigmatism of Breastfeeding
Unsolicited parental advice has probably been coming your way since the day you announced you were pregnant right? While it can be well-meaning, the fact is that many people are just…. Well, wrong.
Do any of these sound familiar?
- You are spoiling your baby
- Your breasts will sag if you keep doing this
- Aren’t you worried that she relies on you too much?
- Won’t his teeth his grow sideways!
None of old wives tails have any factual basis.
Intimacy of the Mother and Baby Bond
When we look at the issue through this lens would you let well-meaning outsiders get in the way of your own bonding time with your baby?
Probably not!
You will benefit just as much as your baby does, both physically and mentally from extended breastfeeding. These are benefits based on scientific research, not old wives tails:
- The highest quality Nutrition
- Strengthen Immune System
- Improved Brain Development
- Reduced risk of arthritis, diabetes and some heart conditions and types of cancer
- Lower Risk Of Postpartum Depression
- Accelerated Weight Loss
Take Control
You should continue to feed your baby for as long as it feels right to do. Being influenced by outside factors is unfortunate and way too common, and what you miss out on you can never get back.
About Giselle May
My name is Giselle and I left the corporate world to become a full-time Mom of a beautiful boy, and Editor of katherinerosman.com. This is a small site that we are growing quickly with the aim of becoming a central resource for Mom’s that will provide actionable advice and info guides. I have found so much support through online Mom communities and I am grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to the information that is out there, and hopefully help others in their own journey along the way.
How are you supporting World Breastfeeding Week? Tag us with your extended breastfeeding pictures and experiences. Together let’s #normalizebreastfeeding