Definition

Extended breastfeeding refers to the practice of continuing to breastfeed a child beyond infancy, typically past their first year of life. This extended period of nursing is often done in addition to providing solid foods to the child. It is a personal decision for a mother, and the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding up to two years of age or beyond for optimal health benefits.

Key Takeaways

  1. Extended breastfeeding refers to the practice of nursing a child beyond the typical 1-2 year age range, often until the child self-weans.
  2. Research suggests that extended breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both the child and mother, including continued immune support, enhanced cognitive and emotional development, and reduced risk of certain illnesses for the mother.
  3. While extended breastfeeding is generally supported by health organizations, it may be met with varying cultural attitudes. It’s important for each family to make choices about breastfeeding based on their own values, beliefs, and needs.

Importance

The parenting term “Extended Breastfeeding” is important because it refers to the practice of continuing to breastfeed a child beyond the commonly recommended 6 months to 2 years of age.

This approach supports the World Health Organization’s recommendation that babies be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life, with continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods up to the age of 2 or beyond.

Extended breastfeeding offers various benefits, including strengthened immunity, improved nutrition, and enhanced emotional connection between mother and child.

It has the potential to foster both short-term and long-term physical and emotional health benefits for both the mother and child.

By recognizing and discussing extended breastfeeding, parents are provided with the knowledge and autonomy to make informed decisions about their child’s nourishment and well-being.

Explanation

Extended breastfeeding refers to the practice of continuing to provide breast milk to a child beyond infancy, typically for a period of two years or more, depending on the preferences and needs of the mother and child. The purpose of this practice is to continue offering a child the valuable nutritional, immunological, and emotional benefits of breastfeeding that contribute significantly to their growth, health, and development.

It is often embraced by families as a natural and nurturing extension of the parent-child bond forged during infancy. Not only does extended breastfeeding provide the growing child with vital nutrients, but it also plays a crucial role in their physical and emotional well-being.

The extended practice of breastfeeding allows for a strengthened immune system, as the child receives important antibodies from the mother, helping to protect them against illnesses. It also fosters the emotional bond between mother and child, offering comfort and security during times of distress or unease.

Extended breastfeeding can ultimately contribute to a child’s overall sense of safety, attachment, and healthy development while giving the mother a fulfilling sense of nurturing and connection.

Examples of Extended Breastfeeding

Mayim Bialik, an American actress and neuroscientist, publicly discussed her choice to engage in extended breastfeeding with her children until they were 4 years old. Bialik chose to practice extended breastfeeding based on research and personal attachment parenting beliefs, which emphasize the creation of strong bonds between parent and child.

A documentary on the Maasai people, an indigenous ethnic group from Kenya and Tanzania, showcased extended breastfeeding as an integral part of their cultural practices. In this community, breastfeeding is considered essential for a child’s survival and goes well beyond the standard recommended 6 months or even 2 years, lasting up to 4 years or more.

In August 2017, a series of photographs portraying an American mother, Kristin Catton, breastfeeding her 5-year-old son was featured in The Huffington Post. Catton stated that extended breastfeeding was a natural and essential part of her child’s needs for comfort, security, and nutrition, allowing him to build a strong emotional bond with his mother.

Extended Breastfeeding FAQ

What is extended breastfeeding?

Extended breastfeeding, also known as prolonged or natural-term breastfeeding, refers to continuing to breastfeed your child beyond infancy, usually beyond the age of 1 or 2 years. It is an individual decision made by both the mother and child based on their mutual needs and preferences.

What are the benefits of extended breastfeeding?

Extended breastfeeding offers numerous benefits for both the child and mother. For the child, it provides continued nutrition, immune support, and emotional security. For the mother, it helps maintain a close bond with the child, offers natural birth control, and may reduce the risk of certain health conditions like breast cancer.

Is extended breastfeeding safe for my child?

Yes, extended breastfeeding is safe and healthy for both the child and mother, as long as it is a mutually desired and comfortable experience. The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for at least two years, and many cultures practice extended breastfeeding as a norm.

Will extended breastfeeding cause dental issues?

There is no direct correlation between extended breastfeeding and dental issues. However, it is essential to practice good dental hygiene for your child regardless of the duration of breastfeeding. Make sure your child brushes their teeth regularly and visits a pediatric dentist for check-ups.

How do I wean my child from extended breastfeeding?

Weaning from extended breastfeeding is a gradual process that varies for each child and mother. You can begin by reducing the number of breastfeeding sessions, offering alternative comforting methods, or shortening the duration of each session. Make sure to be patient, understanding, and supportive during this transition period.

Related Parenting Terms

  • Child-led weaning
  • Natural term breastfeeding
  • Breast milk benefits
  • Toddler nursing
  • Breastfeeding beyond infancy

Sources for More Information

The latest

Extended Breastfeeding

Extended Breastfeeding

Extended Breastfeeding

Extended Breastfeeding