What’s the 411? – Baby Led Weaning

This 411 question came in through our Homegrown Babies Community Facebook page:

Q: “I’m wondering if anyone in here did led weaning with their babies and have any insight to it? I’ve been reading online about it, I’d just like to hear about some personal experiences. I’ve been debating it and it’s coming to be about that time!”

A: Lots of Homegrown Mamas responded with supportive advice and helpful personal experiences but we thought that a bit more information on the subject might be helpful to other women as well!

Whether your baby is three months old, three years old, somewhere between or beyond, the topic of weaning comes up at some point. Sometimes weaning happens when mom and baby are simultaneously ready, but more often either mom or baby will take a clear lead. While we know that breastfeeding has been shown to offer benefits through at least two years old, sometimes weaning happens sooner.

Mother-led weaning is initiated by moms regardless of baby showing signs of readiness, for various reasons – a return to work, extensive travel, extended illness, or because she is simply ready and trusts that it is time.

Baby Led Weaning means mama follows baby’s cues of readiness, which are sometimes very clear- they simply begin to refuse the breast, permanently- but often it’s not so clear. Fussiness at the breast, turning away but eventually conceding to nurse, showing a preference for the sippy cup and solid foods, being too distracted to nurse… these signs in babies under one year old are often due to normal development or low milk supply; it is a very rare baby that will truly self-wean this young. Most often, they will be at least 18-24 months old, sometimes much older, and will begin a slow, gradual process of weaning.

Regardless of whether weaning is mother or baby-led, taking it slow can help both mom and baby with the emotional and physical adjustments, including hormonal shifts in mom. It is important to make sure baby is getting enough age-appropriate foods and liquids to meet their rapid growth, and lots of cuddle time to replace the physical closeness of breastfeeding.

Mamas, it is equally important to care for yourselves during this time as your body adjusts, along with your emotions. It is very normal to feel a mixture of sadness, relief, freedom, and grief all bundled together during this milestone, and for some women, a mood shift due to the hormonal changes. Be aware of signs of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders which, though rare, can kick in when you begin to wean your baby.

Weaning is a natural part of breastfeeding; trust yourself and your baby to know the best timing for you both, and remember that there is a lot of help available if you need it. La Leche League, lactation Consultants, and peer-support breastfeeding counselors can all be invaluable support during this transition!

Director of Postpartum Services and Education CPD(DONA), CD(DONA), CLE(CAPPA), ICCE(ICEA) Jen@homegrownbabies.com Jen Chandlee was inspired to become a birth, postpartum, and lactation professional in 1994 after having her first baby. Her extensive background and over 20 years of experience in the field allow her to provide women and their families a wide range of physical, emotional, and educational support offered with an open mind, loving hands, and calm presence. She is certified through DONA and ICEA and is currently offering postpartum doula services; childbirth, breastfeeding and postpartum education; and in-home breastfeeding support.