Sad that breastfeeding journey has ended

[rottiemum88]

DS is just turned 19 months and for the past week or so has started to refuse his bedtime feed. This is the only feed he has now, so unless something changes soon I guess this means our feeding journey is over and I can't help but feel a little bit sad about it

When I was pregnant I never intended to breastfeed, I just didn't like the idea of it, but agreed to try for the benefits it would offer DS. As it turns out, I adjusted to it far better than I expected and decided to continue, first until he was 6 months, then a year, then 2 years when I thought I'd definitely stop. I went back to work full time when DS was 8 months old for financial reasons, so nighttime feeds were something I'd come to really looked forward to for the bonding time.

I know that technically we're only a few months away from the two year mark now so it shouldn't make any difference, but I think I'm finding it hard that DS has made this decision for himself and I've not had any time to adjust to the idea. I didn't even know that the last feed was going to be the last feed, so it's taken me a bit by surprise, if that makes sense?

I don't really know what I want from this post. Just to write it down I guess. Has anyone else felt similarly emotional when they stopped breastfeeding?

Hi there
I felt very sad when I stopped breastfeeding my (then) 15 month old-for about a week I was so tearful sad and emotional....then I got my period and felt normal again!! I couldn’t find much out there in terms of resources to help with the feelings. I also knew it was the last feed and felt sooo upset so there are benefits to your son deciding!! My son literally didn’t even look for a BF the night I stopped so I knew it was right for him!

Yes I did. I was quite upset when I knew it was coming to an end first time around. My first was 19months, and stopping allowed my body to get ready for number 2. I've just finished feeding number 2 at 2 years and felt more at peace with it, but still a bit sad. Although on both occasions I led the weaning more than I would have preferred. My greatest fear was the lack of connection time from not feeding, but we just found other ways to do so!

I bought myself a milk and hair charm the first time. Second I've just bought a simpler bracelet, reminds me of our journey and of them!

The process of recognising and acknowledging the journey, however long it was, I felt has been important for me in moving on from that stage.

I still feel a bit sad (stopped a month ago) but it has been easier this time.

Also my 2 year old didn't feed for a week, then fed again with no issues, so it's possible he may come back to it. I was surprised how much he was able to feed as I hadn't done anything to maintain supply given that we were weaning anyway!

Ah it’s a milestone isn’t it, and it will trigger a shift in hormones that can make you feel all over the place! My 3.5 year old has just stopped feeding, and I’m having a mixture of sad/relieved feelings. The end of an era.

It’s an odd feeling when it stops! I don’t remember my DDs last feed, I didn’t realise it was going to be the last one, so hadn’t really made a memory of it. I think the hormonal changes that go with it amplify the emotions you are feeling.

You look back and remember the good parts, and after a while you don’t miss it at all and just enjoy the memories, and keep building other happy memories with your child of other things.

Enjoy the next part of your journey, and I hope it is wonderful

4 year old DS2 stopped a couple of months ago, but he still grabs them and tells me he's 'cuddling your boobies, mummy'