Winding down bf

[MrsSparkles]

Dd2 is 6 months and until a couple of weeks ago was ebf. Started to introduce bottles a couple of times a day, with a view to winding down breastfeeding over the next 6 weeks or so.

Is the best way to do this to gradually replace each feed with a bottle? She mostly feeds to sleep so hoping it also helps with that!

[JiltedJohnsJulie]

I think the current advice is to drop one feed every 2 weeks. This will give her the time to get used to the increased quantities and reduce your risk of mastitis.

[Fluffsnuts]

Yes, do it slowly. If you start to feel really engorged or your breasts get painful you are doing it too quickly and risk mastitis.

Is there a reason you want to stop? (just wanting to stop is totally fine, just interested!).

[Liskee]

Following as looking for advice on doing the same when DS turns 6 months in January. It's been a good run and I'm glad I did it, but it's time to move on from breastfeeding in preparation for me returning to work.

[Kstar8]

I'm hoping to do this too but my 4 month old is now refusing bottles and I'm worried I'll be trapped breastfeeding forever

[1sttimemama1986]

I'm currently doing the same. Following for advice.

We have been having bottle at bedtime for ages. Last 2 nights I've given bottle when next wakes for feed. Feel vulnerable to mastitis as had few times and boobs get full lumpy painful and engorged between feeds. My Lo is 6 months.

[MrsSparkles]

Just to update - I've dropped feeds in the daytime with no problems. Still feeding at night (usually 3-4 times), planning to phase this out after xmas. Didn't feed the other night as DH did a night on duty and did feel quite sore, so thinking I'll have to be careful!

KStar. DD was a total bottle refuser until I started weaning her and now no problem at all!