Is Extended Breastfeeding Harmful?
Q. I have been breastfeeding my son for two years now. Because of my work schedule my son breastfeeds on-again-off-again. Can breastfeeding in this manner cause hormonal fluctuations that would affect ovulation and periods? During ovulation, I have noticed light pink spotting, occuring 12 to 14 days after my period for a day or two. My periods are regular but are sometimes heavy or light. My OB-GYN told me that breastfeeding would not cause these things to happen and would not have any effect on my hormone levels after the first few months, but he is not an advocate of extended breastfeeding, and he suggested that I stop now. Is breastfeeding hurting me? A. No, breastfeeding is not hurting you; in fact, it may be helping you. Women who breastfeed are less likely to develop breast cancer (especially breast cancer before menopause), and the longer one breastfeeds the more protection is attained. Exclusive breastfeeding, such as occurs in the first few months of life (if the baby is getti
