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Weaning From Breastfeeding: 5 Surprising Things I Wasn't Ready For
Breastfeeding and I have had a rollercoaster of a relationship. If you asked 2-month postpartum me, I would’ve said ‘THERE IS NO WAY I WILL STILL BE BREASTFEEDING AT 9 MONTHS!’ – I hated it. My baby was feeding every 2 hours, taking 45+ minutes to feed, and I was exhausted! Jump ahead to 6 months postpartum, and I loved it! Quicker, more spaced out feeding and how convenient?!
But heading back to work has put a bit of difficulty back into breastfeeding. Which lead me to the decision to wean my precious little 9 month old girl onto full formula feeding. Lilah has been mix fed since birth, meaning she already happily takes a bottle and isn’t too fussy with what’s in that bottle. But the real realisations were coming to terms with my own physical, mental and emotional adjustments when it came to the weaning process. Here are 5 things I didn't realise would happen after weaning from breastfeeding.
5 Surprising Things I Wasn't Ready After Weaning from Breastfeeding
It would take time for my breasts to adjust
1. It would take time for my breasts to adjust.
When I first decided I was going to wean, I did what every person does – I googled! Because I had no idea what was in store for me once I stopped feeding. And luckily I did because I realised that its not something you should do cold turkey! Slowly dropping a feed every few days will help transition without causing too much pain and fullness, and reduce the risk of mastitis. I’m currently down to one feed a day and thank goodness I did it slowly, I’ve had zero issues.
2. I would miss the convenience.
My gosh making a bottle takes so much more time than unclipping a breastfeeding bra! Washing, sterilising, boiling water, heating up bottles! I definitely took the convenience of breastfeeding for granted these past 9 months. When out and about its definitely nice having your babies food on tap, ready to go at a moments notice. Now I find myself scoping out where I can find a microwave or hot water to warm up a bottle.
3. I LOVE the freedom
On the other end, I LOVE the freedom of saying ‘hubby, YOUR TURN!’. Or Grandma or Uncle, or anyone really. After 9 months of being the main source of nutrition for my little love, it’s nice to be able to hand it over to someone else every once in a while. It also makes heading back to work a lot simpler not having to consider pumping and storing breast milk.
4. I still get bonding time with my baby!
I was so worried that I would lose that bond and that special time between Lilah and I when I weaned her off breastfeeding. But giving her a bottle and staring into her adorable little eyes I realised that we still got to share that time together, just differently! It also means more bonding time for my hubby and his little girl. (And anyone really who wants to feed her, no longer just a Mum task!)
5. My baby doesn’t really care
One thing that made me hold out for so long was how much my bubs loves breastfeeding! It could always calm her down when she was upset... I didn't want to risk not being able to settle her anymore. She had a great latch from the get go and fed like a champ! So naturally I thought the transition to a bottle could be hard on her. But honestly, she couldn’t care less. Now that she’s on solids, actual food is LIFE to her! And breast milk or formula is just something she has a couple of times a day, who cares where it comes from!? Not her!
When you begin weaning, your body gradually reduces milk production. You may notice your breasts feeling full, tender, or even leaking a little for a few days or weeks. Hormone levels such as prolactin and oxytocin start to decrease, which can lead to temporary mood changes or fatigue. Over time, your body naturally adjusts and returns to its pre-breastfeeding state.
The timeline for your milk to dry up can vary widely from person to person. Some mums find their supply decreases within a week or two, while others may notice small amounts of milk or occasional leaking for several weeks — even months. Factors like your baby’s age, how frequently you nursed or pumped, and how gradually you wean all play a role. Easing off feeds slowly helps your body adjust more comfortably and lowers the chance of engorgement or blocked ducts.
Yes, and it’s completely normal. The drop in hormones like prolactin and oxytocin (which help you feel calm and connected) can cause emotional ups and downs. Some mums describe feeling teary, irritable, or a little “off” for a while. Be gentle with yourself, rest as much as possible, and talk to your partner or a friend if you need extra support. These feelings usually settle within a few weeks.
It can. Breastfeeding often delays the return of your period, so once you wean, your cycle may return within a few weeks or months. Some women find their first few periods heavier or more irregular than before, which is completely normal. Your hormones are simply recalibrating after months (or years) of feeding.
It can. Hormonal changes combined with the emotional shift of ending your breastfeeding journey can feel overwhelming. Some mums experience mild sadness or even temporary mood dips, sometimes called “post-weaning blues.” It’s important to care for yourself, stay connected with loved ones, and reach out to a healthcare professional if your low mood persists.
