18 mo has stopped breastfeeding, shall I actively offer it more?

[ASecretLemonadeDrinker]

DS used to feed like mad - even a month ago he was feeding 4 + times a day, if not alot more with little snacks etc. The past 2 weeks though he went to one or two a day, to one every few days, and now none for a week. I was pleased as I am pregnant and knackered, and my nipples were becoming very painful but now I feel guilty and maybe I should be encouraging him as he is still 6m away from 2 ? He is a big lad and I have never refused him a feed, though I started to try other things first as it was getting so painful and the 2nd to last feed I had to pinch his nose as it was so painful and I just couldn't get him off so maybe I have caused it? Shall I try and get him to feed again?

I'd go with his decision. For now he doesn't want to breastfeed. If he asks again then let him feed if you want him too. He may come back to breastfeeding either before, or even after your new baby is born. Breastfeeding when pregnant can be painful. Your supply naturally dwindles a bit and your child has to work harder to stimulate the milk supply. Pregnancy is tiring too. Don't be hard on yourself. Sounds like you're doing and have done a great job

I agree with YoginiBikini. At this age, it should be your DS's choice, and at the moment it looks like he doesn't want to. Your DS may not be so bothered now but may be interested again sooner or later. So long as you take your cues from him and go with what he wants, then you have absolutely nothing to feel guilty about!

FWIW, I think anyone who feeds beyond a year is so bloody brilliant. I had had enough at 12mo so made the decision for my DS which I do feel a little bad about - it's so much better to feed as long as he wants to, and so you should feel nothing but pride in your achievement and in letting your DS decide what he wants to do for himself So well done! And good luck with the pregnancy too