How long should you breastfeed?
There is no single right answer, but the guidance is clear: breastfeed exclusively for about the first 6 months, then continue alongside other food for as long as you and your baby wish.
The recommendations
The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for about 6 months, followed by continued breastfeeding together with complementary food up to 2 years or beyond. Many national authorities, including in Norway, recommend breastfeeding for at least 12 months where possible, and combine this with introducing solid food at 4-6 months.
Any amount of breast milk is valuable. Partial breastfeeding, combined with formula, still gives your baby benefits.
Vitamin D
Breastfed babies need a vitamin D supplement, typically from a few weeks of age. Ask your health nurse which product and dose to use where you live.
It is your decision
Breastfeeding works differently for everyone. Medical reasons, returning to work, supply problems or simply personal choice can all lead to stopping earlier than planned, and fed is best. If you want to wind down, doing it gradually, by dropping one feeding at a time, is more comfortable for you and your baby.
Track the transition
If you are cutting down, keeping a log of feedings helps you see how much milk your baby is getting from breast, bottle and food, and shows when each feeding can be replaced safely.