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Question: Has anyone else let their baby nurse even though there isn't really much milk?

(Posted by: oliveOIL on 2009-12-21 11:36:46)

My daughter is almost 9 months old. Up til her 7th month, I didn't use formula much, she maybe had 1 or 2 bottles every few weeks. I have slowly been introducing more formula and less nursing. Now I am to the point where she rarely nurses and I was pumping but I'd only get an ounce or 2. Now I don't pump and she only bottle feeds.I am trying to wean her most of the way because next semester I will be going to school full time and I also work, it would just be easier on everyone if daddy could just feed her. I think I did a good job nursing as long as I did, she likes bottles, and also she eats a lot of food. She loves to eat food. I think I am still producing a little milk, but not enough to fill her up. Sometimes after she has a bottle I will nurse her just to get her to sleep, or if she is fussy just to calm her. Its more just a nurturing thing then actually feeding her, because really there isn't very much milk. Did anyone else do this? I'm just curious. She'll nurse even though no milk comes out. Thanks :)

Posted by: ♥Riyen's Mom & Ayah due 4.20 on 2009-12-21, 11:43:56

My son would empty the breast and try and use it as a pacifier, so that is probably what she is doing. I usually didn't let that last long because it got uncomfortable after a while. I nursed him for a good 16 months or so, but limited his 'suckling' time after 6 months.

Posted by: jen on 2009-12-21, 11:45:07

I don't have experience doing that but I see nothing wrong with it. I remember seeing it mentioned here... kathydettwyler.org/ detsuck.html Oh and I agree--good job for nursing this long.

Posted by: June B on 2009-12-21, 12:00:41

You are doing a gentle weaning, and that's great! It's ok to have have her suckle a little bit for comfort, as long as you are comfortable with it. Do what works for you and your family!

Posted by: bigred on 2009-12-21, 12:47:12

If you are trying to wean be aware that too much sucking can increase your milk production. The whole supply and demand scenario. Good luck.