1 yr old breastfeeds too much

B

bbc mom

Registered User
Hi everyone. I'm having trouble cutting down the number of breastfeeds. My son just turned 1yr and wants to breastfeed like a newborn. I thought babies were supposed to lose interest as they got older. He eats 3 solid meals a day and has some snacks in between. I've tried increasing the solid portions but he will not finish it all, and will still come looking for a breastfeed and start pulling at my clothes.

I did manage to get down to 4-5 feeds a day, but for the past month he seems to want more (every 2-3 hours). I've tried giving him water but he will only take a few sips (before he would drink a few ounces) and now prefers a breastfeed instead. If I don't give in, he turns cranky and irritable!

Could it be his teething and/or separation anxiety that's causing this?
 
it is funny to hear this since my 1 yr daughter has appeared to self-wean herself recently.

In your case, do you have someone who can take care of him for a 5-6 hour stretch so that he does not see you? if you try that for a few afternoons (at least 3 days) straight, he might forget he needs your breasts.

if his pediatrician is ok, you might offer him some soy milk, cow milk, or rice milk. I rotate all three so my daugher does not take too much of everything. (she does not like BB formula)
 
You can try contacting La Leche League, http://www.lalecheleague.org/HongKong.html, for support. If you become a member, they have lots of books in their library on the subject that you can borrow. I remember reading one which offered tips like distraction with toys/treats, wearing inaccessible clothes, etc. At the very least you will be assured that you are not alone or unusual - I went to a recent meeting where the topic was weaning, and there were a few mums in a similar boat to you.
 
I think it may be teething. When my 13 month old isn't feeling well, she seems to bf more. Im also trying to wean...I was down to only 2 feeds per day but after my helper left, I'm back to 4-5 times per day.
 
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