Hi, my name is Erica Godsell, I am a University of North Dakota student
in my childbearing semester of nursing school.  As an assignment in this
class we are required to post a question to a listserv of interest to us.
I am interested in breastfeeding and especially long term breastfeeding.

        Rogers, Morris, and Taper say there are two critical times that
breastfeeding can be encouraged,  they are when choosing to start nursing
and deciding when to stop (1987). According to Morse and Harrison the recommendation is to breastfeed for 6
months.  In their study the looked at the amount of support breastfeeding
women received cared to the length of time they breastfed.  They found that
for up to 6-8 months of age mothers received support and encouragement about
breastfeeding, but once they continued to breastfeed past 8 months those who
had supported them became silent.  Those who breastfed longer that 9-10
months reported receiving negative comments about still breastfeeding  This
uncovers a social coercion to end breastfeeding and wean (1987).
Another study by Wrigley and Hutchison found that women who continued to
breastfeed often kept that fact a secret to friends.  They also developed a
support system in which it was acceptable to continue breastfeeding.  This
study also tells of the positive effects that long term breastfeeding had on
their children.  According to the mothers the children had fewer illnesses
and allergies, and developed what the researchers called a synchronic
relationship with their child.
        As having been a child that was breastfed into my toddler years I am very
interested in what age of weaning is encouraged in your practices?  Also
what is your feeling, opinion, and support of women who choose to long term
breastfeed?

Thank You in advance for your feedback!
Erica Godsell
UND Nursing Student
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References

        Morse, J. M., & Harrison, M. J. (1987).  Social coercion for
weaning. Journal of Nurse-Midwifery, 32,(4), 205-209.

        Rogers, C. S., Morris, S., & Taper, L. J. (1987). Weaning from the
breast: influences on maternal decisions.  Pediatric Nursing, 13,(5),
341-345.

        Wrigley, E. A., and Hutchison, S. A. (1990). Long-term
breastfeeding:  the secret bond.  Journal of Nurse-Midwifery, 35,(1),
35-41.