Can your supply handle variation at 12 months?

[babygirlsmama]

I've been to breastfeeding support meetings where I heard other moms report that their toddlers varied wildly in how much they nurse, but that their supply was fine with it. In other words, I got the impression that you reach a point where you don't have to worry so much about missing feedings and suffering supply issues. I also have heard once you get past the distracted learning to walk phase, the baby has new enthusiasm in nursing. We're in the distracted phase now.

My little one is nearly 12 months and has been exclusively nursed. Some days she's all about nursing, other days she is too busy learning to walk to be bothered. Some days I feel my breasts getting a bit full and begin to worry about supply. The funny thing is that it seems worse when I'm around her all day -- it's like she just takes a sip here and there and never really nurses well because she knows I'm right there.

Is this supply issue a valid worry at 12 months? I just want to ensure my supply is ok so that she can wean herself when she is ready, which I understand biologically won't happen for quite a while yet.

Thanks,
Babygirlsmama

[lifeguard]

I'm sure it can vary for different people but for me as ds got older my body seemed to be so established that changes in timing didn't effect me as much.

This past weekend I went away for the weekend, didn't pump & was only slightly engorged when I got home & he picked up with no problems.

[boobs4milk]

i feel more confident in supply now and she is all over on nursing frequencies and amounts. i remember this with dd3, as well. i don't remember feeling painful letdown this long with dd3, but they say every bf relationship is different. we still do demand feedings and she doesn't fuss, even during my af times.

[mamadelbosque]

I've never worried about supply past 6-9 months. By then my supply is well enough established that nursing more or less one day is no big deal. Good luck!!

[AndtheStars]

I worry about this too from time to time but I figure if DS isn't complaining and I'm not uncomfortable, everything is fine. He's coming up on 14 months and still isn't walking (or trying really) but he's been a distracted nurser for about 3 months now. I still have milk though I haven't felt full in a long time.