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Extended breastfeeding, defined as breastfeeding for more than a year, is recommended by experts for its positive effects on the bond between mother and child, as well as their physical and emotional health. However, it may face criticism in some societies and the weaning process can be difficult. Breast milk is also a better source of nutrition and can provide health benefits for both mother and baby. Downsides include fatigue, difficulty with medication, and lack of support from society.
Extended breastfeeding, also called long-term breastfeeding, is generally defined as continuing to breastfeed a baby for more than a year. It is much more common in some societies than others, and the practice is actually recommended by many experts on child health and development. There are several pros and cons of extended breastfeeding. The practice is known to enhance the bond between mother and child, as well as having positive physical and emotional health effects for both. Negatives may include third-party criticism of the mother’s decision to continue breastfeeding and the potential difficulty of the weaning process.
The practice of extended breastfeeding enjoys varying degrees of acceptance depending on the location. In the United States it is still considered unusual; in many other countries, however, it is the norm. Recommendations from experts such as the World Health Organization (WHO) are generally to breastfeed at least up to two years of age and then to continue as long as the mother and baby want to.
Some of the positives, or pros, of extended breastfeeding include improved bonding between mother and baby, as well as beneficial effects on their emotional and physical health. Breastfeeding has been found to enhance a secure, intimate and loving relationship between mother and child. Infants who have a sustained breastfeeding relationship with their mothers are likely to be well-adjusted and independent. Breastfeeding can also serve as a valuable source of reassurance and comfort for young children. It also serves as an opportunity for the closeness and bonding that many mothers love.
Prolonged breastfeeding also serves as an important source of health benefits for the baby. Breast milk is known as a better source of nutrition than alternatives like cow’s milk or formula; breast milk is easier to digest, so babies are unlikely to experience gastrointestinal problems while breastfeeding. It also provides extra support to the immune system because it contains valuable maternal antibodies that can help babies avoid getting sick. The health benefits for the mother include a lower chance of developing certain types of cancer, including breast and uterine cancer, as well as reducing the risk of developing osteoporosis. It may also help promote weight loss for some women and allow them to delay the return of menstruation.
There are also some downsides, or cons, to extended breastfeeding. Some women may experience fatigue and may find that the increased appetite from breastfeeding makes it difficult to get back to their pre-pregnancy weight. Breastfeeding can also prevent mothers from taking certain medications that may be helpful. Another downside of extended breastfeeding for women living in cultures where it is rare is criticism or lack of support from society, including in some cases even friends and family. The weaning process can also be more difficult with an older baby, particularly if the mother decides to stop breastfeeding but the baby just doesn’t want to yet.
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