Breastfeeding is often viewed as something that should only happen in the first year of life. However, many mothers around the world continue to breastfeed well beyond infancy, making it an essential part of their parenting journey. Extended breastfeeding is a practice that not only supports the child’s health but also strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child. Despite its numerous benefits, extended nursing often comes with a slew of misconceptions. In this post, we aim to debunk some of these myths and explore why breastfeeding beyond infancy is a choice that should be embraced.
What Is Extended Breastfeeding?
Extended breastfeeding refers to the practice of breastfeeding a child beyond the first year of life, with some mothers continuing to nurse into toddlerhood or even preschool years. While every family’s situation is different, many mothers choose to continue breastfeeding for a variety of reasons, including health benefits, emotional bonding, and the comfort it provides their child.
Nutritionally, breast milk remains an essential source of vitamins, minerals, and immune-boosting antibodies. For children who are still breastfeeding after their first birthday, this can offer a safeguard against illnesses, as well as provide a source of hydration. Beyond infancy, breastfeeding continues to contribute to a child's development in many ways, helping them grow stronger, emotionally secure, and better equipped to navigate the world around them.
WHO – Breastfeeding, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and La Leche League all support the importance of breastfeeding well beyond the first year, recommending its continuation for as long as mother and child wish.
Debunking the Myths of Extended Nursing
While extended breastfeeding is becoming more common, it still carries some myths that may deter mothers from considering it. Let’s take a closer look at these misconceptions and set the record straight.
Myth 1: "Breastfeeding beyond infancy is unnatural."
One of the most common myths about extended breastfeeding is that it’s unnatural. However, this view overlooks the biological fact that humans are mammals, and as such, are naturally designed to breastfeed for longer periods. In many cultures around the world, extended breastfeeding is the norm. In parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe, it’s not uncommon for mothers to breastfeed their children for 2, 3, or even 4 years. Research supports this cultural practice, showing that breastfeeding for longer periods can have long-term health benefits for both mothers and children.
Myth 2: "Extended breastfeeding makes children overly dependent."
Another myth is that extended breastfeeding fosters dependency in children. In fact, breastfeeding, especially as a child grows, provides emotional comfort and security. It helps children feel safe and nurtured, but it does not impede their ability to develop independence. Many children who are breastfed for longer periods are able to transition smoothly to other forms of nutrition and are often more self-confident and emotionally secure. KellyMom offers a helpful fact sheet on the emotional benefits of extended breastfeeding.
Myth 3: "Extended breastfeeding leads to social stigma or negative consequences."
Some people believe that extended breastfeeding may lead to social embarrassment or unwanted consequences for the child. This simply isn’t true. While it’s important for mothers to navigate social perceptions, it’s also crucial to remember that children breastfeed for comfort, nutrition, and bonding. The decision to continue breastfeeding is ultimately a personal one, and it’s vital for mothers to receive support from their families and communities. UNICEF and Healthline debunk myths about breastfeeding that might cause concern in a societal context.
Why Embrace Extended Nursing?
Now that we've debunked some common myths, let’s dive into the reasons why extended breastfeeding is not only beneficial but also an essential part of a child’s development.
- Health Benefits for Both Mother and Child
Breastfeeding offers significant health benefits that extend well beyond infancy. For the child, breast milk continues to provide essential nutrients and immune support. Studies have shown that children who are breastfed for longer periods have a lower risk of allergies, asthma, and other illnesses. For mothers, extended breastfeeding can help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast and ovarian cancer, and can even assist in postpartum recovery. BabyCenter highlights the health benefits for both mother and child as they relate to extended breastfeeding.
- The Emotional Bond
Extended breastfeeding fosters a unique emotional connection between mother and child. The act of breastfeeding allows for closeness, trust, and bonding that strengthens the parent-child relationship. It helps children feel secure and loved, while mothers also benefit from the emotional satisfaction of caring for their child in this nurturing way. KellyMom elaborates on how extended breastfeeding helps in emotional development.
- Cultural and Global Perspectives
In many parts of the world, extended breastfeeding is the norm rather than the exception. For example, in many African cultures, it’s common for children to breastfeed until they are 3 or 4 years old. The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for at least the first two years, as breast milk continues to offer valuable nutrients well into toddlerhood. Understanding the global perspective on extended nursing helps normalize the practice and highlights its value beyond cultural borders.
Practical Tips for Extended Breastfeeding
For mothers considering extended breastfeeding, it can be helpful to have some guidance on how to navigate this journey. Here are a few tips:
- Trust your instincts: Every child is different, and you are the best judge of your child’s needs.
- Normalize the practice: Educate those around you and help create a supportive environment for extended breastfeeding.
- Balance social needs: Find the right time and place for breastfeeding, respecting your child’s needs while also considering social settings. Legendairy Milk SG offers valuable information on foods that support lactation, which can be particularly helpful for extended nursing.
Conclusion
Extended breastfeeding is a practice that continues to benefit both mother and child far beyond the first year of life. It provides essential health benefits, strengthens emotional bonds, and offers comfort during crucial developmental stages. Despite the myths and societal pressure, breastfeeding beyond infancy is a completely natural and beneficial choice. Let’s continue to support mothers who choose this path and help normalize extended breastfeeding for the future.
References:
- https://www.who.int/health-topics/breastfeeding#tab=tab_2
- https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/129/3/e827/31785/Breastfeeding-and-the-Use-of-Human-Milk?autologincheck=redirected
- https://kellymom.com/store/freehandouts/extended_bf_factsheet.pdf
- https://www.unicef.org/parenting/food-nutrition/14-myths-about-breastfeeding
- https://llli.org/breastfeeding-info/toddlers/#:~:text=BREASTFEEDING%20YOUR%20TODDLER&text=%E2%80%9CReview%20of%20evidence%20has%20shown,years%20of%20age%20or%20beyond.%E2%80%9D
- https://www.healthline.com/health/breastfeeding/extended-breastfeeding
- https://www.babycenter.com/toddler/feeding/extended-breastfeeding-is-it-for-you_8496
- https://www.thebump.com/a/extended-breastfeeding
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/breastfeeding-and-bottle-feeding/breastfeeding/benefits/
- https://legendairymilk.sg/pages/best-foods-to-increase-breast-milk-supply?srsltid=AfmBOoquNgHPoTBCdu69ioUgYYHdE8rEOQaaD0TKmgm87eULOL-VzZ_1