When I first became a mom, I had no idea how long my breastfeeding journey would last. All I knew is that I wanted to try. I knew I wanted to give my babies the best start I could. I knew my body was made to grow and nourish my babies. Honestly, I didn’t plan on nursing into toddlerhood, but here I am, having breastfed both of my boys well beyond the age of two.
It’s a part of motherhood I never expected to be so transformative and rewarding.
Breastfeeding has been a powerful way to nourish, bond with, and comfort my babies from the very beginning. In infancy, breastmilk provides the perfect mix of nutrients tailored to baby’s changing needs. It boosts immunity, supports brain development, and promotes healthy digestion (and so much more!!). Beyond the nourishing benefits, breastfeeding fosters emotional connection, regulation, and a sense of comfort and safety, all which I truly treasure having had with my babies.
As babies grow into toddlers, the benefits continue, although they're often overlooked or misunderstood. Breastfeeding beyond infancy is not only normal, it’s globally common and deeply beneficial. In fact, the worldwide average age of weaning is around 4 years old (in the US it’s around 6 months). In many cultures, breastfeeding into the toddler and preschool years is the norm, not the exception.
The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for at least two years or beyond, as long as it’s mutually desired by mom and child. Contrary to what some might think, breastmilk doesn’t lose its value after a baby turns one. It continues to provide high levels of immune protection, healthy fats, and important nutrients like protein, calcium, and other vitamins. It also offers ongoing emotional comfort, especially during transitions like teething, illness, separation anxiety, or big developmental leaps. It has been so helpful for my boys when they don’t feel well, get hurt, or need extra comfort.
For my family, extended breastfeeding has become a sacred rhythm in our day. It is our quiet moment in the chaos. A way to reconnect. A comfort when they were sick or overstimulated. A way to help them settle into sleep after a big day of learning, playing, and exploring.
All that said, breastfeeding hasn’t always been easy. Yes, there have been challenges. Concerns about supply. Questions about allergies or sensitivities. Struggles with pumping. There were/are days I felt touched out. Yes, there were times I questioned whether I should (or could) keep going. Comments from others who didn’t understand. Exhaustion from night(s) nursing with a little one who wanted the comfort even more than the nutrition.
Sometimes the hardest part of motherhood (and breastfeeding) can be the mental load, questioning the process, self-doubt, and navigating unsolicited opinions feeling the need to justify a choice that feels so natural and right.
For me, when I’ve had challenges and struggles, seeking support has made all the difference.
I leaned on lactation consultants early on who helped me through the initial hurdles of latch, supply, and the overwhelming learning curve of breastfeeding. Cranial sacral therapy and other pediatric specialists including occupational therapists and pediatric dentists helped my babies optimize function and latch. Of course, I’m so deeply grateful for chiropractic care! It has been so beneficial for both me and my boys as they grow and to help my body adapt and heal. As a chiropractor, I know how important it is to support the nervous system during such a demanding season. Adjustments have helped me with the physical demands of nursing from posture strain, upper back tension, lower back pain, and even hormone balance. For my boys, gentle chiropractic care has supported their latch, digestion, sleep, and overall comfort especially during growth spurts, teething, and developmental milestones.
In addition to professional support, I’m eternally grateful for other moms who have helped me normalize and embrace breastfeeding, especially extended nursing. Just hearing someone else say, "Me too," has been so affirming!
But maybe most importantly, I learned to trust my instincts. What felt right for me and my boys. What worked for our family, regardless of what anyone else was doing or what others thought.
Extended breastfeeding has brought me closer to my boys in ways I could never have anticipated. It has taught me patience, presence, and the power of slowing down. It has challenged me but has given back so much more than I ever thought possible. Motherhood and breastfeeding are truly a journey and I’m grateful for both.
I know not every mom can or wants to breastfeed, and every feeding journey is deeply personal. I respect and support each mother for what is best for her and her family. For me and my family, breastfeeding has been the best choice for us, but it may not be for others and that is ok. Whether you nursed for two weeks, two years, or not at all, you are doing what’s best for your family, and that is what matters most. You are doing amazing things! Motherhood isn’t about following a script; it’s about showing up with love, intention, and grace.
If You’re Considering or Navigating Extended Breastfeeding, here are a few things that helped me:
● Lactation consultants: Even months into nursing, they can help with toddler latch, nursing aversions, and weaning strategies when the time comes.
● Chiropractic care: For both mom and baby, it can be a game-changer. It supported my physical body, milk supply, and stress levels—and helped my babies with latch, sleep, and digestion.
● Community support: Local and online mama groups helped me feel seen, heard, and not alone.
● Gentle parenting books & resources: They gave me perspective on the emotional needs behind toddler nursing.
● Self-trust: At the end of the day, no one knows your child or your body better than you do. Whether that is to breastfeed, exclusively pump, do both, or not to breastfeed at all, know that it is important you do what you feel right in your heart. You were made and chosen to be a mom. You are doing wonderful things for your family!
To the mama wondering if it's okay to keep going, or even if it’s okay to stop, this is your reminder: You're allowed to choose what works for you and your little one. There is no “right” timeline, only your timeline. And there is beauty and bravery in honoring that.
If you are seeking help and support along your motherhood and/or breastfeeding journey, know that I and the other doctors and staff at Cleveland Chiropractic are here for you…even if you just need someone to listen and a place to feel supported and safe.
In health and blessings,
Dr. Abbey