Breastfeeding your baby beyond the age of 1 is known as extended breastfeeding. The American Academy of pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months after birth and breastfeeding combined with solid foods until  1 year. However choosing to continue with breastfeeding is entirely up to you and your child.

If you decide to engage in extended breastfeeding , you have to be prepared for rude comments from people. However there are many benefits to  this practice so don’t let others deter you from doing it.

What are the benefits of extended breastfeeding

Some of the benefits of extended breastfeeding include the following :

• balanced nutrition : As your baby gets older, breastmilk will continue to change to meet her  nutritional needs.
• boost immunity : the cells and antibodies in breastmilk continues to boost your child’s immunity
• improved health : The longer a child breast-feeds, the better her health

Breastfeeding also benefits the mother in various ways too

• breastfeeding reduces the mothers risk of certain diseases such as
  • breast cancer
  • ovarian cancer
  • rheumatoid arthritis
  • high blood pressure
  • heart disease
  • diabetes
• you may be able to delay your period for a year or more and avoid the discomfort of cramps during menstruation
• continued breastfeeding may help you manage your weight
• it’s more convenient than formula

What are the cons of extended breastfeeding ?

Extended breastfeeding may have the cons

• you may get rude comments or get criticized
• your child may use the breast to soothe himself when she is bored or wants attention
• nursing a toddler when you  have another child may be overwhelming

NOTE

Extended breastfeeding can come with some negative comments. Try not to let what people say affect you. You need to trust your instincts . Think about what is best for you and your baby and enjoy it.