Extended breastfeeding.

[SunWorshiper_26]

I know breastfeeding past age 1 is normal in all other countries but the US. Just wondering if anyone else is still breastfeeding and if so, do you get a lot of criticism and how do you respond?

[trh0819]

We are at 16 months and still nursing but I am beginning to think she is doing it more as habit than real need. The time Annabelle spends is decreasing.

[SunWorshiper_26]

I agree trying43, unless I too missed something...

[trying43]

I don't think this thread was meant as criticism at all unless i missed something. It was simply that some of us who are extended breastfeeding get criticized and how do we deal with it.  Sorry you felt it was a criticism but I wasn't meaning it that way at all.  

[SunWorshiper_26]

Seattleview I'm sorry that you feel the need to defend yourself for breast feeding till seven months. I never criticized anyone or said anything like that. I was just looking to encourage those who are continuing to breast feed after the age of one since it has become so taboo in our culture, there is little support and people do not openly talk about it. It is a subject that needs more support and recognition so that others learn the amazing benefits of breast feeding past the age of one. It's not to say you "only" breasted seven months and you should not be proud that you made it that far. It isn't an all or nothing. I was speaking specifically about extended breast feeding but yes, any amount of breast feeding is a wonderful gift to your child and no you do not have to defend yourself on breast feeding till 7 months. I never put down anyone for breast feeding any less.

[seattleview]

I think you should be careful about not wanting people to criticize you when your own comments can often be interpreted as critcizing others. We completely weaned by 7 months and are just as proud of that as you are of extended breastfeeding.

[SunWorshiper_26]

Yay trh you rock!  Love that mindset!!!

[trh0819]

I still am in the morning and at night. Annabelle shows no interest during the day. I don't think anyone has criticized me but then again, I don't know that anyone is even aware since it's just those two times. Regardless, I don't really care what anyone else thinks. It's what is best for our family and that's all that matters. My pedi is all for it, too.

[SunWorshiper_26]

You ladies are awesome!!  I too am still breastfeeding :). My husband told me it was time to wean and I said "clearly not because she's still nursing!"  besides the amazing benefits with "extended" breastfeeding!  I'm also still pumping and donating fresh milk to another mom for her daughter.

[chapina]

I still am, I'm slowly weaning her I'm down to just feeding her for nap and bedtime. I went back to work so I had to do it almost cold turkey. I only get snarky comments from those who don't have children or have dealt with one so I really don't care I just ignore them, I don't even acknowledge that they said something. As long as I know that I'm doing the best for us at that moment is good enough for me. :)

[trying43]

Btw I have used all of the above comments and they really shut people up because really what can they say back?? Nothing

[trying43]

I am and people know better than to criticize me or else!!!!! Lol  I don't put up with an bs from anyone but that's just me :)  if anyone has anything to say simply say back last time you checked you were the childs mother so until they take her to raise they have no say so....or just tell them mind their own business...or inform them that the W.H.O. actually recommends it till age 3 now so just doing what's best for your child...or tell them if their so offended stop looking....I could go on and on lol