Breastfeeding can continue for as long as you and your baby enjoy it. Some babies decide on their own that the time is right to stop, and for no apparent reason lose interest completely. This can be upsetting if you are not yet ready to stop feeding, and if it happens suddenly, you should take steps to avoid engorgement.

As your baby becomes more active and interested in the outside world, he may not have the patience to feed quietly at the breast, but may constantly turn his head (pulling your nipple along with him!) when he hears a noise. This phase rarely lasts for long, and if you want to continue to breastfeed, you may benefit from temporarily finding a quiet place for feeding.

Breastfeeding the older baby has many advantages: your baby will continue to benefit from breast milk’s nutritionally superior recipe for the duration of breastfeeding. Feeding can also be beneficial in calming toddler tantrums, settling a baby who has hurt himself or nourishing a young child who is poorly and will take no solids. Breastfeeding also provides a valuable bond for mothers who have returned to work.

In global terms, it is not abnormal for a baby to be breastfed for up to four years. But in western society, extended breastfeeding is discouraged and the majority of women give up by the time their baby is a year old. However, there is no reason why the breastfeeding relationship should stop before either you or your baby are ready to give it up.