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Wondering how long to keep breastfeeding?

What breastfeeding and breastmilk provides at the different ages and stages of your baby's life

little girl breastfeeding

How long to continue breastfeeding for is a personal decision for your family to make. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding (i.e. no other fluids or solids) for six months and then continued breastfeeding combined with solid foods for 2 years or as long as mother and baby desire.  

Read here about what breastfeeding provides at the different ages and stages of your baby's life. Even if breastfeeding has not worked out as you had planned, you can be reassured that even a few days of breastmilk has been important for your baby. 

Whether you breastfeed for a day or for several years, the decision to breastfeed your child is one you will never regret. And whenever weaning takes place, remember that it is a big step for both of you. 

 

© Australian Breastfeeding Association April 2022