Breastfeeding Beyond One: There’s No “Right Way” – Just Your Way

Written by: Courtney Miller, RN, BSN, IBCLC

Once your baby hits that one-year milestone, it can feel like the world suddenly has a lot of opinions about breastfeeding. Some people will tell you it’s time to stop. Others will say you should keep going. But here’s the truth: breastfeeding past one year is deeply personal, and it can look however you want it to.

Whether you’re still nursing several times a day, just at bedtime, or once every few days, your journey is valid. There’s no magical amount of breastmilk your toddler “needs” at this stage—because breastfeeding after the first year isn’t just about nutrition. It’s also about comfort, connection, security, and whatever else it means to you and your child.

I always say: breastfeeding before one is for baby, but breastfeeding after one is for YOU—for mom. It’s however you want it to look. For the first six months, you were their sole source of nutrition. And even after solids were introduced, breastmilk remained the main source. That’s a lot of pressure. Honestly? I found that I enjoyed breastfeeding over one year far more than I did under one. It became less about meeting a constant nutritional need and more about connection and shared moments.

What Does Breastfeeding Look Like After One?

For some families, it means quick nursing sessions during naps and bedtime routines. For others, it means comfort nursing during teething, illness, or just tough days. It can be:

• A quiet moment before bed

• A way to reconnect after daycare or work

• A soothing method during a tantrum

• A once-in-a-while “check-in” between toddler adventures

The frequency, the purpose, and the routine can all change—and that’s okay. Your body continues to make milk on demand, adapting to your baby’s needs and your life.

The WHO Recommendation (And Why It’s Still Your Choice)

The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding until at least 2 years old. But again—this is totally up to you. That recommendation is there to support families who want to continue, not to pressure those who don’t. The beauty of breastfeeding past infancy is that you get to decide what’s best for your body, your baby, and your bond.

There’s No Rulebook

We often hear messages like “your baby doesn’t need breastmilk anymore” or “they’re just doing it for comfort now.” But here’s the thing—comfort is a valid reason. Just like cuddling, rocking, or holding hands, nursing can remain a meaningful part of your relationship with your child.

You don’t need to count ounces. You don’t need to justify continuing. You don’t need permission.

Trust Yourself

Your baby is growing. They’re eating solids, drinking water, discovering the world. And whether you’re breastfeeding once a day or ten, you’re still providing something incredibly special.

So here’s your reminder: breastfeeding can be whatever you want it to be. There’s no timeline, no right amount, no rulebook—just your instincts and your connection with your child.

Keep going, or start winding down—you get to choose. And whatever you choose, it’s enough.