You have reached the 6 months breastfeeding mark. So what now?
It’s recommended to feed babies breastmilk for 6 months. Now that you have reached that milestone you may be wondering why it’s still a good idea to keep breastfeeding.
The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for to two years and beyond.
Breastfeeding past infancy is normal!
Even though baby is starting solid foods from around 6 months it is unlikely that the amount of breastfeeds baby needs will drop significantly just yet, they need breastmilk as their main component of their diet until 12 months.
Most babies are still breastfeeding 6-8 times per day but may start to take slightly less milk at each feed from now on.
By continuing to breastfeed alongside the introduction of foods not only ensures good nutrition but breast milk helps with the digestion of those other foods.
Breastfeeding Benefits After 6 Months
- Helps Baby Digest Solid Foods
- Baby is more likely to Eat a Range of Flavoured Foods
- Helps Baby with Teething
- Provides Ongoing Protection and Antibodies

Baby is More Likely to Eat a Range of Flavored Foods
Breastfeeding Helps with Teething
During these teething phases your baby may want nothing other than to breastfeed and forgo solids for a few days or weeks as this can be extremely soothing when new teeth are popping through.
- Follow Baby’s Cues
- Unusual for a Baby to Self Wean Before 12 months
- Maintain Milk Supply with Expressing
Breastfeeding Also Provides Ongoing Health Protection
Breastfeeding protects baby while they are exploring their surroundings with all their senses.
Signs Baby is Ready For Solid Foods
- Sit and hold head in a high chair without help
- Interested in your food and tries imitate you eating
- Able to grab items and bring them to their mouth
- No longer has the tongue-thrust relex that pushes food out of their mouth
- Can take a spoonful of food into their mouth and swallow
- Beginning to Chew