Natural Term Breastfeeding

The Beauty & The Benefits

I much prefer natural-term breastfeeding to extended breastfeeding. Extended breastfeeding makes it sound as if breastfeeding till your child is no longer a baby, is not normal. This is far from the case. The natural weaning age for a child is anywhere from 2.5 years to 7 years, which might cause a bit of a stir in today’s world. Since in some countries it is classed as “extended” past one-year-old.

Unfortunately as a society, we have been turned away from breastfeeding. Though it is slowly making a comeback, there is a big push for it to be normalised again and supported. I fed my eldest until he was over 3.5 years old, unfortunately, I got a bad aversion while I was pregnant and could not feed him any longer. I was hoping to tandem feed with my second, but that did not happen.

Understanding Natural Term Breastfeeding

Natural-term breastfeeding is not just about sustenance, not that breastfeeding ever was. When we allow our children to breastfeed into childhood we allow them to not only continue to receive the nutritional benefits of breast milk but also continue to strengthen the bond between mother and child. We allow them a safe, familiar space.

Natural term breastfeeding is a testament to the power and adaptability of a mother’s body. How it can provide, way past infancy, the optimal blend of nutrients that our children need to develop.

Remember, every child’s journey is different. Some may wean naturally before you even realise it is happening. Some children may start nursing less frequently as they start exploring the world around them, and eventually stop altogether. On the other hand, other children may use it as a comfort or touchstone as they navigate the world, coming back to fill their cup before returning to their adventure.

Natural term breastfeeding allows your child to embrace their autonomy while still enjoying the warmth of their mother’s embrace.

Benefits of Natural Term Breastfeeding

The benefits of natural-term breastfeeding far out way any cons. Breastfeeding nurtures your growing child’s emotional well-being as well as boosting the immune system, offering tailored nourishment, and supporting brain development even as your child grows and explores the world.

Emotional Connection

Natural-term breastfeeding nurtures a deep emotional bond between mother and child. The act of nursing provides a haven of security and comfort, fostering emotional resilience and a sense of safety that extends beyond the nursing session.

Immune boosting

Breast milk never loses its immune-boosting properties even as your child grows older. Breast milk continues to bolster your child’s immune system, helping them fend off illnesses and infections as they explore the outside world.

Tailored nutrition

As your children develop, breast milk composition adapts to their changing nutritional needs. It’s a powerful fluid that continually adjusts to provide the optimal blend of nutrients, proteins, and fats required for their growth and development.

Brain development

Breast milk contains essential fatty acids that play a crucial role in brain development. These nutrients support cognitive functions, helping to shape your child’s intellectual potential as they continue to learn and explore.

comfort & security

In times of stress, illness, or emotional upheaval, natural term breastfeeding serves as a source of solace. The familiar act provides a safe space for your child to find comfort and emotional regulation, offering a sense of security during times of uncertainty.

Physical and Psychological Development

Breastfeeding has been linked to promoting healthy physical and psychological development. The skin-to-skin contact, nurturing environment, and the release of oxytocin during breastfeeding contribute to your child’s overall well-being.

Environmental Sustainability

Everyone wants to help the environment in some way. Natural term breastfeeding promotes sustainable practices. It reduces the environmental impact associated with formula production, packaging, and waste.

Reduced Allergies

Breast milk’s protective properties can help reduce the risk of allergies and sensitivities, aiding in the child’s overall health. My husband has hay fever and eczema and my children have not inherited it, I like to think breastfeeding has helped with this.

Ease of digestion

Breast milk remains easily digestible even as your child transitions to solid foods. This helps prevent digestive discomfort and aids in absorbing nutrients from other foods.

Healthier lifestyle habits

The positive experiences associated with breastfeeding can lay the foundation for healthier lifestyle habits as your children grow, encouraging mindful eating and self-care practices.

emotional intelligence

The close connection established during breastfeeding can contribute to your child’s emotional intelligence, empathy, and social skills.

Conclusion

Natural term breastfeeding, surpasses norms, deepening the connection between mother and child. It honours both mother and child by empowering their relationship to flourish on its own terms. Embrace natural term breastfeeding with open hearts, and let it enrich your lives.

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