Breastfeeding and Switch at 6 months

by Ashlee Whitaker
(Delaware)

Visitor Question: I am going back to school around the time my son will be 7 months old. I want him to have the benefits of breastfeeding, but I know the work load I am going to have to finish my degree plus work.

I wanted to know should I pump or will it be easy to breastfeed and then introduce baby to bottle.

How about only breastfeeding for 6 months or so and switching to formula?

This is my first and I have no clue what I am doing or what I can do.

I have to go back to school for us, and I have to work for us, for a better future!!

Breastfeeding Magazine Response: Congratulations on your first baby and your bright plans for the future!

Many moms are able to go back to work, go back to school and still breastfeed...so there is no rule that says it has to stop to accomplish your goals.

However, if you plan to stop breastfeeding at 6 months, go ahead and breastfeed as usual and then just start introducing an occasional bottle before you are ready to wean.

The longer that your breastfeed, the more benefits for your little one, but ANY amount of time will be a gift to your child...so do what works for you.

Good luck!