How can I reduce my child's reliance on nighttime breastfeeding?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have an 18-month-old daughter who is still breastfeeding and is highly dependent on it. She wakes up frequently during the night to feed and continues feeding for an extended time.

She also has difficulty falling asleep during the day and night and tends to have a light sleep. Despite my efforts to wean her off night feeds, she resists and cries intensely and violently.

Could you help me understand the reason for this dependence?
How can I reduce her reliance on breastfeeding, particularly at night? Additionally, to what extent can her cries for milk be safely ignored?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to iCliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Breastfeeding your baby until the age of two is both good and recommended, so it is great that you are continuing to breastfeed.

Now, regarding your child’s strong dependency on breastfeeding, it is not uncommon for some children to become reliant on breastfeeding because of the comfort and satisfaction they derive from sucking.

You have not mentioned the status of your milk secretion. If your milk supply is insufficient when she demands breastfeeding, she may remain hungry, wake up frequently, and continue asking to be fed. This issue needs to be addressed.

At this age, your daughter requires approximately six feeds within 24 hours, which should include three solid meals (preferably family food) and three breastfeeding sessions.

Tips to reduce breastfeeding dependency

Establish a feeding routine: Begin by developing a consistent schedule for her feeds. This will not happen overnight, so patience is key.
Suggested routine:
1. Morning: Breastfeed when she wakes up.
2. After two to three hours, serve the family breakfast.
3. After another three hours, Offer family lunch (the same food as the family, but let her explore and enjoy without force).
4. Afternoon: Around 3 to 4 p.m., offer breastfeeding.
5. Evening: By 7 to 8 p.m., give her dinner.
6. Night: Breastfeed before bedtime.
You may add an extra breastfeeding session during the day if she demands it.
Night weaning: When she wakes up during the night, avoid breastfeeding and offer solid food, fruit juice, or a small snack like biscuits instead. She may cry initially, but this phase will pass with consistency and patience.
Stay consistent: It is challenging for mothers to see their child cry, but this process will help establish a routine and lead to better sleep for both you and your child.

With patience and persistence, everything will fall into place. If the issue persists or you have additional concerns, feel free to reach out for further discussion or to explore alternative solutions.

I hope I have answered your query.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.