- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- babies today articles
- babies today q&a
- toddlers today articles
- toddlers today q&a
- breastfeed.com articles
- breastfeed.com q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Ann Calandro BSN, RNC, IBCLC Lactation Consultant | ||
 |
Is it still healthy for a child to breastfeed for extended periods?
Yes. Breast milk continues to offer immunological properties to the child along with superior nutrition. Although it is not designed to be the sole food for children beyond the first six months or so, breast milk continues to add nutrition, vitamins and calories along with health benefits.
Nursing an older child is very different from nursing a baby. Older children nurse infrequently, usually only when going to sleep at night.
Mothers, too, benefit from extended nursing. A recent study indicated that longer nursing decreases the mother's chances of developing breast cancer.
Related Expert Q&A
- How long would humans nurse without societies negative influence?
- Is it still healthy for a child to breastfeed for extended periods?
- My child is now 3. Is it still beneficial to breastfeed?
- Is it possible for a mom to have side effects from nursing a 2-year-old extensively?
- What are the benefits or lack of benefits for a child continuing to nurse at 2 1/2 to 3 years old?
More Answers by this Expert
- My breasts are so large now, I am worried I will smother my baby if I try to breastfeed. Also, will my breasts return to their former size?
- Is it necessary to give multi-vitamin supplements to a breastfed baby? Doesn't Mother's milk provide all the nutrients a baby needs?
- Are there any laws in effect that hinder women from breastfeeding in public?
- What are an employer's legal responsibilities and duties for breastfeeding and/or pumping at work?
- I am pregnant, and my nipples are like a faucet, particularly when I'm sleeping. Is this normal?