How Long Should a Mother Breastfeed? Understanding the Ideal Duration

Breastfeeding is a beautiful, natural way to nourish babies and build a strong bond between mother and child. But many new moms wonder: How long should I breastfeed? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, and it depends on many factors, including the baby’s needs and the mother’s comfort. 

Dr Sukirti Jain, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, Vashi, shares expert insights to help parents understand the ideal breastfeeding duration and what to expect along the way.

Understanding the Ideal Duration of Breastfeeding

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. After that, complementary foods should be introduced, while continuing breastfeeding for up to two years or even beyond. Dr Sukirti Jain explains, “There is no strict cutoff at two years; it depends on both mother and child's comfort, cultural practices, and individual circumstances such as whether the mother works or family preferences.”

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How Much and How Often Should You Feed?

Feeding frequency changes as babies grow. In the beginning, newborns need to feed very often, but as they grow older, the gap between feeds widens.

Here’s how Dr Jain breaks it down:

• Newborns (0–1 month): 8–12 feeds in 24 hours, roughly every 2 to 3 hours.
• Infants (1–6 months): 7–9 feeds per day.
• Babies (6–12 months): 5–7 feeds per day as solids are introduced.
• Toddlers (after 1 year): 2–3 feeds per day, plus on-demand feeding.

“You have to listen to your baby,” says Dr Jain. “Look for hunger cues like rooting reflex, fussiness, or sucking hands. Always feed on demand, not by the clock.” This “on-demand” approach ensures babies get enough milk to grow and stay satisfied.

Deciding When and How to Stop Breastfeeding

Stopping breastfeeding, or weaning, should be a gradual process based on readiness. Dr Jain advises, “Both mother and child need to be ready. Don't abruptly stop. Look for signs like the baby showing more interest in solids, less interest in breastfeeding, and longer sleep stretches.”

Signs that it may be time to begin weaning include:

• Baby is eating solids without fuss
• Longer sleep stretches at night
• Reduced interest in breastfeeding

It’s also okay if a mother continues partial breastfeeding while the baby transitions to more solid food. “Even partial breastfeeding has benefits,” Dr Jain adds.

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What Age to Stop Breastfeeding?

The WHO suggests breastfeeding for two years or beyond, but most children naturally wean off around 18 to 30 months. “After one year, breastfeeding is still valuable,” explains Dr Jain. “But solid food becomes the main source of nutrition.”

In many families, cultural traditions, work routines, or personal comfort also influence how long breastfeeding continues. What’s important is that mothers feel supported, not judged, in their decision.

How Long to Breastfeed on Each Side

A common question many mothers ask is how long to feed from each breast. Dr Jain says it’s less about the clock and more about letting the baby finish one side before switching. “Remember to completely empty the breast from one side before moving to the other,” she explains. “Breast milk has two parts: the foremilk, rich in vitamins and minerals, and the hindmilk, which is higher in fat and energy.” If you switch too quickly, your baby might miss out on the fatty, filling hindmilk.

Here’s a simple guide:

• Newborns: Usually 15–20 minutes per breast.
• Older babies: Often finish in 5–10 minutes per side as they become more efficient.
• “Every baby is different,” says Dr Jain. “Some are slow suckers, some are fast. Let your baby decide when they’re full.”

A study published in The Lancet (2023) found that children who were breastfed for at least two years had stronger immune systems and better cognitive development compared to those who stopped earlier. The study emphasised that continued breastfeeding, even after the introduction of solid foods, provides essential antibodies and emotional comfort.

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Conclusion

To sum it up, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is ideal, followed by complementary foods alongside breastfeeding for up to two years or longer, based on mutual comfort. Dr Sukirti Jain reminds mothers, "Breastfeeding is a journey unique to each mother and child. Listening to your baby and trusting your instincts is just as important as following guidelines." Feeding frequency decreases as the baby grows, but remains flexible according to hunger and demand. Weaning should be gradual and considerate of the child's readiness.