By Charity Phionah

Weaning a baby can be a challenging and emotional experience for both the mother and the baby. It’s a process of gradually introducing solid foods and reducing breastmilk or formula intake. While it can be exciting to see your baby reaching new milestones, it can also be difficult to say goodbye to the breastfeeding stage. It can also be accompanied by physical discomfort and pain, especially in the breasts and the whole body.

Nutritionists and health practitioners always sensitize pregnant women who go to health centres for antenatal and post natal care about breastfeeding. Among the many components taught to mothers is exclusive  breastfeeding of  the baby for the first 6 months. Some mothers, because of challenges including their health and work related issues can’t exclusively breast feed and introduce some solid drinks and foods earlier before 6 months elapse (sometimes on recommendations of the health practitioners). This however does not cause more body pains to the mother because the baby will be accessing the breast milk at some intervals within the 24 hours of a day.

Therefore, in this article, I would like to share the experience of weaning a child at 1 year and 4 months old ( before the recommended 2 years)  and how I managed the situation. One might say that the baby was old enough at 16 months but believe me, whether below 6 months or after 6 months, as long as a mother has enough breast milk but has to wean a child because of a challenge at hand, it is quite hurting.

Here are some experiences a woman might go through during the weaning process and tips to overcome the pains and stay bonded with the baby thereafter.

Emotional attachment: Breastfeeding creates a unique bond between a mother and a baby. The mother may feel a sense of loss or sadness when weaning, as it marks the end of a special time. The baby may also feel upset or confused, as they are losing the comfort and security of nursing. When you see him or her cry for that “ Nyunyu”, it breaks you down BUT you have to do it. No Turning back to achieve the objective of deciding to wean early.

Tip: Be patient and understanding. Allow yourself and your baby time to adjust to the changes. Find other ways to bond with your baby, such as cuddling, reading, or singing. Be there for him or her. One can let the baby be with a trusted friend but it hurts our Angel who misses you lots.

Engorgement and discomfort: Most of my fellow mothers I have interacted with know this as Breast pain. When you wean your baby, your breasts will gradually stop producing milk, which can lead to engorgement, soreness, and even mastitis.As the mother’s milk supply decreases, she may experience engorgement and discomfort. The pains in the breasts is somettimes too much for the first 3-4 days that a mother rethinks of  letting the baby get to the breast again. The baby may also become fussy or refuse to eat solid foods.

Tip: Gradually reduce breastfeeding sessions and replace them with solid foods. Use ice packs or a warm compress to relieve engorgement. Over the counter drugs are a no go for an over dose is more likely unless prescribed by a health practitioner.  Consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider if you experience any pain or complications.

Wear a supportive bra and apply warm or cold compresses to relieve pain and swelling. If you experience any redness, fever, or flu-like symptoms, contact your healthcare provider, as it could be a sign of mastitis.

Nutritional concerns: The mother may worry that her baby is not getting enough nutrients from solid foods. I tell you our little Angel won’t like the solid foods in the first days and since they eat little, a mother may feel like they are never getting satisfied.

Tip: Introduce a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Continue to offer formula as a supplement. Introduce feeds after a short time period like atleast after every 2 hours, a baby should have a drink. Fluids are more beneficial at this stage.

Sleep disturbances: The baby may have difficulty sleeping without nursing. The mother too can’t get a right position to sleep in for the breasts are engorged and in body pains. Others get fever. Weaning can cause hormonal fluctuations, which can lead to muscle aches and joint pain.

Tip: Rest and relaxation can help alleviate body pain. Take warm baths, gentle walks, or practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.

Tip: Establish a consistent bedtime routine and offer comfort through other means, such as a pacifier or soft toy. Please, Please, i again say tjis – wear a tight bra for that period until you feel.the breasts are not engorged. Only remove the bra as you take a shower and wear it again. It helps alot on the healing process.

Weaning regression: The baby may temporarily regress in developmental milestones or behavior.

Tip: Be patient and offer extra love and support. It’s a normal part of the weaning process, and the baby will eventually adjust. Make sure he or she feeds properly on a balanced diet.

Mood swings: The hormonal changes during weaning can also lead to mood swings, depression, and anxiety. Remember, it sometimes happens abrupt like a job opportunity that needs immediate start that the mother was not prepared for hence abrupt weaning of the Angel.

Tip: Talk to your healthcare provider about your symptoms, as they may be able to recommend medication or counselling. Make sure it doesn’t affect your relationship with people around you or the work you do for you need the work , the baby and yourself perfectly well altogether.  Lean on your support network, whether it’s family, friends, or support groups.

Fatigue: Weaning can also lead to fatigue and exhaustion, as your body adjusts to the changes.

Tip: Prioritize self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and staying hydrated. Ask for help from your partner or loved ones, whether it’s taking care of the baby or helping with household chores.

Emotional pain: Weaning can be an emotional process, as it marks the end of a special time with your baby. I tell you that till now as we near 24 months, she still asks for her favourite “Nyunyu”. I let her tough and she only puts in the mouth jokingly and smiles letting go. It shows me that she still needed to breastfeed till 2 years and she misses her favourite. As a mother, this hurts and creates a feeling of “I wish I breastfed her for more days. Or, can I let her resume afresh? “ Ohh, I remember that there’s a job I want so much for us to survive  that can’t allow me restart.

Tip: Give yourself time to grieve and process your emotions. Write in a journal, talk to a therapist or support group, or find other ways to express your feelings. Be there to pray with the baby at a slightest time you get.

In conclusion, weaning a baby can be a difficult but necessary process. It’s important to be patient, understanding, and compassionate towards yourself and your baby. Remember that every baby is different, and there is no one “right” way to wean. By gradually introducing solid foods and finding new ways to bond with your baby, you can successfully transition to the next stage of your baby’s development. By taking care of your body and mind, you can navigate the weaning process and continue to bond with your baby like i did. And with nothing to worry about, Please, try to let she /he baby breastfeed until 2 years of age.