This is a precis of an article that appeared today (Wed 21st May) in the London Times, written by the regular medical writer Dr Thomas Stuttaford. Quoting starts here: 'When the breast is no longer best for the loving mother and child' The tv presenter Pamela Armstrong became a mother in her early forties. Her son is now 3 1/2 and Miss Armstrong 45, is still breastfeeding. It is thought that breastfeeding gives a baby a good start in life but when should a mother consider that her child is off the starting line and ready to learn to live independently? Could Miss Armstrong's well-intentioned b/f handicap her Son, mentally and physically? What is the effect of prolonged b/f on the mothers pituitary gland and hence her ovarian function? Women should be given every encouragement and help to b/f but some find it repugnant and others have physical problems that prevent it. These mothers should be reassured that it is the cuddling while feeding that is the most important factor in establishing bonding and that careful bottle feeding will to a large extent alleviate any problems caused by lack of breast milk. (then there is a paragraph about good things about b/f i.e.immunity/protection from gastrointestinal infections) Barry Lewis a consultant paediatrician in London said:'Breast Feeding for 3.5 years metaphorically, keeps the umbilical cord uncut for longer than is desirable. A child may become overdependent on the mother and find it difficult to develop a separate existence later. This may cause trouble ranging from rejection of babysitters to difficulties when starting at the nursery school. (there is a then a paragraph that this dependence on the mother can make the father feel undermined) In primitive societies where the whole family is able to be together throughout the day, prolonged b/f is more common and may also be less psychologically damaging. When frequent and given on demand, b/f inhibits the action of the mothers pituitary gland. As a result ovarian function is diminished, ovulation is prevented and sexual desire is eroded. It is theoretically possible that the likelihood of other problems of ovarian dysfunction, including osteoporosis in later life could be increased. (next paragraph deals with Dr Lewis considering the impact on a couple's love life if having to share bed with a toddler etc.) Breast milk is an ideal food for young babies but it does not provide adequate iron and is short of some vitamins, in particular vit D. Long before the baby has become a toddler, breast milk should be regarded only as a nourishing drink, not a complete diet. It is possible that over reliance on breast milk could blunt a child's appetite for other foods that are essential to prevent malnourishment. (Quoting finishes here). J. Rachael Hamlet Author, The Breastfeeding Advocacy Page http://www.clark.net/pub/activist/bfpage/bfpage.html