New Mothers don't often let weaning be one of the first thoughts while holding a brand new baby; I know my biggest worry would come to light after the six weeks away from work. And whether you breastfeed or formula feed, weaning is something we all have to deal with eventually. But, what happens when your child is ready before you know it?
My daughter has the type of personality where, when she puts her mind to it, she does it as soon as possible. She was the same way with walking, not letting anything slow her down; weaning was the same. You'd think she would slowly work herself off the stuff, but that wasn't the case. Tuesday she skipped a few feedings. Wednesday she skipped nursing after lunch. Thursday she went cold turkey, and by Friday breast milk was a mere, foggy, memory she forgot.
It was the most heartbreaking thing I have ever experienced first hand. The pain of engorgement only amplified the emotional toll and separation anxiety I was going through. All of a sudden my baby didn't need me, she didn't want me. No more breastfeeding, no close cuddles, not even anymore night feedings. After researching it, I thought I'd found a glimmer of hope when I read about nursing strikes. I tried offering the breast when she was half asleep. It never mattered, she always turned her head and made the most disgusting facial expressions.
I never realized how attached I was to nursing. It was the few moments throughout the day that I could hold her down. She would make the most delighted faces when she tasted the first few drops, and I got that relaxed feeling down in my gut where everything was at peace. To have that taken away in such a short amount of time is difficult.
Although many women say that a slower weaning allows your supply to decrease without engorgement, I'm not sure that is entirely the case. I haven't gone through that yet, since this is my first child, but my Mother said it never made a difference for her. It's always heartbreaking and painful.
Each time I leaked through my shirt and felt my shirt get wet and go cold, my heart broke a little more. Not too long ago I was saving every precious drop to supply nutrients to my baby girl. When you pump, and transfer milk to bottle, you almost hold your breath hoping to be still enough to save every last drop. It feels like such a waste to allow my supply to dry up, but I have.
My daughter was ready for weaning, and instead of letting me know, she simply took charge. She drinks plenty of water and eats three good meals a day aside from snacks and goodies. Her diaper situation has changed, and I think her body is transitioning well. Even though it seems to be easy for her to turn away from nursing, I can't help but wonder if she misses it. I haven't noticed the slightest nursing movement in her sleep, so I think it must have been a fleeting memory.
Did your baby forge ahead with self weaning? I'd love to hear your story, and to share it with other women. Sharing is caring!
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