Breastfeeding that is longer than a year is often called extended breastfeeding. Calling it extended breastfeeding truly does feel so long, isn't it? But the truth is, it is completely normal to continue to breastfeed your little one longer than a year. It is only frowned upon in Western countries when in fact, it is not unusual in many cultures for a child to be breastfed for two years or beyond.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continuing along with the introduction of solid foods throughout your baby's first year. Once your baby reaches one year, the AAP recommends breastfeeding for as long as you and your baby wish to as there is no evidence of psychological or developmental harm from breastfeeding into the third year of life or more.
Benefits of Extended Breastfeeding
In fact, your child shall continue to receive all of the health and developmental benefits of breastfeeding for as long as you nurse.
- Nutritional benefits - Breast milk is the most nutritious source of milk for your child. It has all of the nutrients - minerals, vitamins, fat, protein, and carbohydrates that your child needs. Even after your child starts eating solid food, breast milk helps to complete your little one's nutrition.
- Immunity - As long as you continue to nurse your child, your breast milk continues to boost their immune system as it contains antibodies and other immune-boosting factors. Breastfeeding helps your baby to fight off allergies, colds, and other infections.
- Illness - Extended breastfed children get sick less often and have a shorter span of illnesses compared to non-breastfed children. Children who are breastfed also have lower cholesterol, are less likely to be obese and develop type 2 diabetes.
- Comfort & security - Breastfeeding is soothing and relaxing for your child. It can help your little one copes with fear and stress. As your child grows and explores the world around them, it gives them a sense of security to know that they can return to the safety of nursing in your arms. Parents who have breastfed for more than a year describe their child as:
- more emotionally secure
- more loving and friendly
- more independent
- physically healthier
- easier to comfort during pain or stress
- happier and cheerful
Drawbacks of Extended Breastfeeding
While there are no known negative effects or developmental harm of extended breastfeeding for your child, there are some negative setbacks of extended breastfeeding that impact the mother.
- If you are still breastfeeding and trying to conceive another child, the process might be harder than expected as breastfeeding suppresses prolactin and your cycle might not return for a long time or at all until you wean.
- If you have a second child who is also breastfeeding, it can be taxing for you and your body and may not be practical for a period of time.
- You could feel a loss of your freedom.
- You may face social hostility.
The continuation of breastfeeding beyond one year is not only normal but beneficial, too. It is a fulfilling and wholesome journey that should very much be encouraged and supported for as long as possible.
