This Mom Verifies: Weaning Blues Are Very Real
Jemima Middleton, in an old Instagram post, talks about Weaning Blues—something that moms need to talk about today
When there’s breastfeeding guilt, there’s also weaning blues. After spending hours pumping and living the first chapter of motherhood as an on-call buffet, weaning can feel a little bittersweet. While we get some semblance of our life back, knowing that our baby “lets go” of us hurts. That’s when the Weaning Blues, as mom content creator, CBI-trained pp doula and Lactation Consultant Jemima Middleon (also known as the Midnight Milkbar on Instagram) describes it, hits.
So for the moms who are slowly weaning off and feeling a little “off,” not to worry—you’re not alone.
“It’s not just dropping feeds.”
On the outside, breastfeeding is simply dropping feeds. But what happens on the inside is far more complex and intricate than that.
With all our hormones and feelings that come with them, it can feel heartbreaking. According to Jemima, some of those feelings can take “weeks” to resolve themselves.
“I didn’t realise how much it would affect my emotions,” admits Jemima in the post. “Weaning can trigger a hormonal shift. As the milk production slows, estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, which can cause mood swings, sadness, and even anxiety!”
So when the emotions hit, it’s okay to grieve the end of breastfeeding. “Even if you’re ready to wean, saying goodbye to those moments of closeness can feel emotional,” she assures. “You and your baby are adjusting. Give yourself some grace.”
She points out that breastfeeding isn’t the only activity where moms can feel close to their baby. Nor does breastfeeding have to stop completely and instantly. It’s perfectly normal to be gradual with the transition, she assures.
“It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. A gradual approach can help our bodies and emotions adjust more smoothly. Maybe keeping some feeds like bedtime cuddles for a while longer will make things easier,” she adds.
“You’re still your baby’s safe space.”
It can feel like the end of an era — one that we’re not ready to leave either.
But, according to Jemima, breastfeeding is just one of the many bonding rituals moms can have with their babies. It serves as the foundation for building new ones. Each moment moms breastfeed gives them an idea of how their baby is, up close. Besides, nobody can take away that emotional bond a mother has with her baby.
Ultimately, Jemima offers comfort to the many moms who find themselves weaning and ending their breastfeeding journey. “You are everything to your little one, no matter how they’re fed.”
More about breastfeeding?
Celebrating the Strength of These 6 Breastfeeding Moms
3 Common Breastfeeding Problems That Moms Struggle With
How to Make Co-Sleeping Safe if You’re a Breastfeeding Mom
