Self weaning at 6 1/2 months...

The last few weeks she has been really distracted while BFing and doesn't stay latched on long enough for the let down to happen. So I started supplementing more and more with formula. The last few days she has BFed maybe twice each day. I KNOW my supply had to have decreased. Now today she doesn't want the bottle. It's 11:45 and she's had maybe 5 ounces since 6 am. I'm freaking out that she's changed her mind, wants the breast back and I don't have the milk to feed her! I don't want to traumatize my kid with abrupt weaning which I feel is what it is going to turn into. Please help!

Re: Self weaning at 6 1/2 months...

My son was only bottle fed, but I know that when he was teething at about that age, he didn't really want much to do with the bottle either.

Re: Self weaning at 6 1/2 months...

Hi,
hopefully I can help a bit.... its normal at that age for them to be distracted while nursing.... it doesnt mean that she wants to stop... if you want to keep breastfeeding her don't worry about your supply... your body will make more milk as long as you keep nursing her... its supply and demand. Instead of offering her the bottle, offer her the breast. If she has no other option other than the breast, then she will feed from it. Also, she is most likely a pro now at feeding, so she will not linger on there as long as she used to. She may just get on, nurse, and get off... they become really good at getting enough milk in a short amount of time. Also, just an FYI... an baby RARELY stops nuring on their own before 1 year...Hope this helps!!