Although many mums stop breastfeeding before their children turn one, extended breast-feeding is generally considered to be any breastfeeding that extends past the first birthday. While stopping breast-feeding before then is perfectly normal, so is extended breast-feeding, and it’s a matter of personal choice, and circumstance.
 
Breast feeding your toddler can help boost his immune function, as studies have shown, and will help to reassure him or her while your child is going through the tricky toddler years. It helps to maintain the connection between mother and child, and if your child is sick, can even help him or her to recover faster. Breast milk is free, and freely available, and it does mean that you don’t have to worry about forgetting the formula, and since breastfeeding can also keep menstruation at bay, it can be a big benefit to you too!
 
At the other end of the spectrum, there are a few cons to think about too.
 
There is a stigma attached to toddlers who breastfeed – even though it’s been an accepted practice for centuries. That will mean that you may want to avoid breastfeeding your child in public, to avoid stares and comments. Your child may also see breastfeeding as a way to dominate your attention, and it can be more difficult to wean an older toddler from the breast. Then there’s the issue of your next child – if you’re planning another pregnancy, coping with that, and with breast-feeding, may be too much for you.
 
At the end of the day, choosing to extend breastfeeding is something personal, and whether you do or don’t, don’t worry what anyone says.

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