Self weaning?

[Funkychicken]

My little man is now 9 1/2 months and it seems that he doesn't want to feed from me during the day. I am still able to feed him 2-3 times through the night but would really like to continue feeding him throught the day. As background information, my now 6yo daughter self-weaned around 9-10 months and I was left devastated and feeling like a failure even though I was supported by people around me. I don't think I ever really dealt with it and now to have my third bub doing the same thing is quite frightening. If I offer him my boob, he just bites it. He looks up at me and clamps down with his two weent front teeth and pulls back. The pain side is not an issue-I can deal with that at the moment but I am wondering if his night feeds are enough for him and if he drops these, will he have to be given formula. I find it vile stuff and really don't want to give it to him but is he too little for cow's milk?
My supply is still good and I am expressing what I can throughout the day but this doesn't amount to much.
I know this isn't really my decision and that my bubba will ultimately be the one to decide when to wean but if there is anything I can do to increase his feeds again, I would be grateful. Any hints on how to get him to want to feed again?
Thanks.:)

[Pinky McKay]

Hi Funkychicken,

It really is traumatic to have ababy wean when you arent ready - breastfeeding is about so much more than milk - it is an integral part of a woman's love life - you have grown and nourished this child totally from your body - it is also a two way relationship -sudden endings are painful.

Your mummy instincts are spot on - your bub is a bit too young to wean -yes sure he will make up his own mind but perhaps right now he is teething and busy during the day so feeds better at night -often bubs who go on nursing strikes can be coaxed to nurse during their sleep - have you tried feeding him during the day while he is drowsy?

If he has a few feeds at night your supply will be maintained and he may come back to nursing more enthusiastically in a few weeks or months - could he be sensing your stress about him possibly weaning? Has he been frightened by a reaction from you when he bites?

Perhaps the best solution would be to just 'back off' and continue with the night feeds for now, try occasionally offering when he is sleeping during the day, and when he is through this developmental stage, he may happily nurse again.

Meanwhile if you do a search on "Nursing strikes" - you may find some helpful suggestions to reassure you.

Pinky