Should I stop breastfeeding?

You may be thinking about stopping breastfeeding but wondering if you should. Perhaps your circumstances have changed, or you’ve come up against challenges that feel hard to work through. You might also be feeling pressure from others.

In many situations, having the right information and support can make a difference. Some mums decide to keep breastfeeding, while others choose to wean. You might find it helpful to explore what’s happening for you and learn about the options available.

There are many reasons you might be thinking about stopping. Some of the more common ones are below, along with links to further information if you’d like to explore them.

You feel your milk is drying up
There are ways you may be able to make more milk. Learn more about increasing supply.

You’re worried your breastmilk isn’t good enough for your baby
Mature human milk is often bluish and may look thin compared to other milks. Your milk is made for your baby and continues to change to meet their needs. Learn more about breastmilk.

You’re having breast or nipple problems
Challenges like soreness or pain can often be worked through with the right support. First aid for sore nipples

You feel exhausted or physically worn down
Young babies need to feed often in the early months and night feeds can make everyone exhausted. This can be the same no matter how your baby is fed. Read more about coping with broken sleep. 

You're returning to work
Many mums continue to breastfeed when they return to work, either fully or partly, depending on what feels right for them. Explore options for returning to work and breastfeeding.

You’re pregnant
It’s possible to keep breastfeeding during a new pregnancy if that feels right for you. Learn more about breastfeeding through pregnancy.

Your baby is biting or teething
Many babies get their first teeth between 6 and 9 months. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to wean. You can read more about biting and breastfeeding.

Your baby is refusing to feed
Breast refusal can happen for different reasons and is often temporary. See information about why babies may refuse the breast.

You’re confused by different advice or opinions
You might hear different advice from health professionals, family or friends, which can feel confusing. Finding someone who listens to your situation and helps you make sense of your options can be helpful. Talk with a breastfeeding counsellor.

Your doctor has told you to wean for a medical procedure or treatment
There may sometimes be other options that allow you to continue breastfeeding. Talk with your doctor about how any treatment or medication may affect your milk. It’s rarely necessary to wean to protect your baby from your illness. Find out more about medicines and breastfeeding.

You feel pressure to wean
You may hear messages that your baby is too old to be breastfeeding, or that it’s time to stop. For some parents, connecting with others in a similar situation can feel supportive. ABA’s local group get-togethers are one place you might find that support. Connect with local mums. 

Every breastfed baby is eventually weaned. This may happen after a few weeks, or after a few years. When that time comes is something only you and your baby can decide, based on your own circumstances.

Breastfeeding may be natural, but it is also a learned skill. Sometimes, despite your hopes and efforts, it doesn’t work out as you had planned. If you are ready to wean, or thinking about it, ABA is here to support you in whatever decision feels right for you.
 

© Australian Breastfeeding Association June 2026