Should You Wean Your Nursling to Conceive Another Baby?

Excerpt from Getting Started with Breastfeeding: For Catholic Mothers

Is ecological breastfeeding working too well for you in terms of its natural infertility effect? Are you desiring another baby but wonder what is God’s will in this matter? 

First, pray with your spouse about how you are feeling. Try not to compare your family size with that of others. This is a private decision between you, your spouse, and God.

Then think about the answers to some of these questions: 

How old is your nursling? Is he at least one (if not, formula supplementation may be necessary) or maybe even over two years old? The World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics both recommend breastfeeding until at least age two and longer if mutually desired. However, this does not necessarily mean waiting for two years before seeking pregnancy. 

How does your child respond when you try to distract him instead of nursing him? If he cries a lot and seems very unhappy, he may not be ready to reduce the amount he nurses. Also, does he eat solid food well? If he still does not eat solids well, he is probably nursing a large part for the nutritional benefits in addition to comfort. Your milk still has the same great nutritional value as it did when your baby was younger. 

Are you cycling? If you are cycling and just not getting pregnant, keeping an NFP chart may help you conceive. 

Would you regret having weaned your nursling if you cannot conceive again in the future? God may have other plans for your family, so you want to make sure weaning is in the best interest of this particular child.

If you do decide weaning is the right decision, it is best to slowly drop one nursing at a time so your child and milk supply gradually adjust. Usually the bedtime and nap time nursings are the most challenging to drop, so maybe choose a time during the day when your child is not tired and is easily distractible. Be sure to offer lots of affection, attention and snacks.

Written by Gina Peterson