how long should I breastfeed my baby?
As long as you and your baby wish. The AAP recommends “breastfeeding continue for at least 12 months, and thereafter for as long as mutually desired.” The WHO recommends “exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months and thereafter infants should receive complementary foods with continued breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond.” Most U.S. moms stop sooner than officials at the CDC would recommend. Remember that your baby must have breastmilk and/or formula (not cow or soy milk) for the first year. Be sure to call your health care provider or a lactation consultant if your baby will not latch properly, if sore nipples or engorgement persists, or if you have any concerns! For more information about breastfeeding: • American Acadamy of Pediatrics, “A Woman’s Guide to Breastfeeding” • Elizabeth N. Baldwin and Kenneth A. Friedman, “A Current Summary of Breastfeeding Legislation in the U.S.” • Elizabeth N. Baldwin “So I Nursed Him Every 45 Minutes” and Kenneth A.
