Dilemna--should I wean or pump? - Page 2

[Mary-Beth]

Pump so you have a good stash of milk for the baby while you are away.
While babies often eat solid foods by 11-12 months old, she may not eat enough of them or enough variety and as a result she may still need milk. So having that will ensure proper nutrition and would also be comforting to her...a sort of connection to you while you are away.

I'd say pump while you are away....it shouldn't take much just to keep lactating. Then when you return you can resume bf, if you choose. It's really hard to look ahead and know what you will want to do so I'd plan on pumping so your options are left open for you to decide when the time comes.

[Pogo0685]

I would just like to thank you OP for your dedication to not only your family but to this country so that I can have the freedoms I enjoy and my son has the chance to have the same freedoms. Thank you for taking time away from your family to make my life better!

[laurelg]

I would pump now to ensure she gets BM to one year. Beyond that, I would say it is a matter of your preference. You may want to consider keeping at least some supply up so you can BF to reconnect when you get home - but that may only be once or twice a day, KWIM?

Personally, I will do everything it takes to keep DD on the boob until at least one year. Past that, I would really like for us to go to 2+, but I will let her set the pace. I would not knock a mama who weans at one, especially one under the pressures you are under. You are doing a great job!