5 Things to expect when you wean your baby from breastfeeding

Even just thinking about the last time you will breastfeed your baby can bring up a range of different emotions – and, when the time comes, it can cause a few physical changes for you and your baby. Dr Letlhogonolo Sepeng, a paediatric neonatologist practising at Netcare Parklane Hospital in Johannesburg, shares a few of the changes you can expect when you wean your baby from breastfeeding. 

Emotional changes when you stop breastfeeding

Many mothers who have started the weaning process report feeling emotional. This could be due to the realisation that your little one is growing to be less dependent on you. It’s also largely driven by changing hormones.  

“There is a decline in prolactin and oxytocin, hormones known for their feel-good effects. These hormones are produced at higher levels during breastfeeding, therefore, when the breastfeeding ends, the levels drop and this can cause mood swings, sadness and feelings of depression,” explains Dr Sepeng. 

Physical symptoms after weaning your baby

Shifting hormones do not only cause emotional changes, though. “There is also a rise in oestrogen and progesterone, Dr Sepeng says. “As they rise, they can trigger the return of ovulation and the menstrual cycle.”

“The rise in the levels of cortisol can also contribute to night sweats, fatigue and severe headaches or even migraines,” says Dr Sepeng. “Some women may experience hair loss due to hormonal changes.”

However, she says it is important to remember that the intensity of the symptoms can vary depending on individual factors, such as the speed of weaning and the duration of breastfeeding.

How your breasts change after breastfeeding

As your breasts change in preparation for the birth of your baby, their appearance also changes as you wean your baby from breastfeeding. “Weaning too quickly can cause engorgement, clogged ducts, mastitis and unpleasant hormonal shifts,” says Dr Sepeng. She advises against suddenly stopping breastfeeding and recommends mothers do this gradually. 

These changes are also common, she says:

• A return of the breast size to the pre-pregnancy state

• Stretch marks on the breasts

• Gradual decrease in milk production

• Decrease in breast firmness after breastfeeding as the milk-producing glands are replaced by fatty tissue

• Sagging breasts due to the stretching of the skin and ligaments supporting the breasts

• Return of the pre-pregnancy areola and nipple colour.

Why your baby might resist weaning

Breastfeeding is a time for you and your baby to bond and feeding times form a large part of your baby’s daily routine, so when it’s time to start complementing breastmilk with more solid foods at about six months old, your baby might show some resistance or a regression in breastfeeding.

Dr Sepeng advises mothers to gradually decrease the number of breastfeeding sessions over several weeks, rather than suddenly stopping, as this allows both the mom and baby to adjust.

“Consider daytime versus nighttime weaning, and distract your baby with activities like reading, playing or going for a walk to divert their attention from missing a breastfeeding session,” she says.

What to expect during your baby’s adjustment period

When weaning a baby from breastfeeding, they may experience a few challenges, says Dr Sepeng. These may include:

• Food refusal

• Constipation

• An upset stomach

• Challenges with chewing, swallowing or learning new textures

• Potential changes in mood and sleep patterns.

If any of these problems persist, consult your baby’s paediatrician. 

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