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Expert Q&A

 

By Ann Calandro
BSN, RNC, IBCLC Lactation Consultant

My son is being breastfed twice in the evening and once in the morning. I would like to drop the evening feeds. However, so far I am failing miserably. I have sort of dropped the first evening feed but my son has chosen NOT to replace the first evening feed with formula but to wait until the second. At the moment I am still engorged at the time of the first evening feed and do not quite know how to stop the second one. HELP!!!

The breastfeeding relationship is a tender and ongoing one. You and your son are a team, and you are dancing together. Both of you are equally important partners in this dance. He is telling you that he loves to dance and is not ready to stop dancing, and you are encouraging the dance to end.

I don't think you are failing. I believe you are listening to your son and his needs. You have not said how old he is. Many babies cherish the breastfeeding time, and it is recommended that he nurse at least 12 months. Many babies nurse much longer than that. The important thing, is that you two are working this out together and in your own time you will find a way to continue the special relationship when the dance ends. There are no rules and no absolutes!

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