[Marcie36]

I have just started to look into adoptive breastfeeding, so I apologize if this is an odd question. We are in the process of adopting internationally, and therefore we will likely not bring the baby home until he/she is older. At what point is an infant/child to old to try to introduce them to the breast?
Thanks for any insight you may have!

[kakuehl]

An interesting question! I don't have an answer since I'm not an adoptive mom and haven't researched the issues. I could see some advantages in bonding. I personally weaned my children (actually they weaned themselves) gradually to a cup as they added solid foods. They were both weaned from the breast at about a year or 13 months. There are some women who breastfeed their children for much longer.

I hope someone has am answer for you.

[Leigh131313]

Gosh, I know a girl on one of my threads that adopted from South Africa - I'm pretty sure she decided to nurse. I'll try to remember her name and post it for you, I know it's Karyn but there may be more to her username then just that....


I'll get back to ya!!

[Marcie36]

Thanks both for your help! I really appreciate any info!

[teendoc]

I belong to an adoptive breastfeeding support group through Yahoo. There are many women there breastfeeding older children and dealing with the challenges of having them take to the breast. If you are interested please send me a PM and I will point you to the group.

[Ypsitucky]

Hello Marcie and all,

I"m also a newbie, adopting from Guatemala, and will also be bringing home an older child. But I've found from poking around on the internet that it CAN be possible, which is so exciting to imagine...

Can you please also PM me too the name of the other support group? Thanks so much...looking forward to getting to know you all...

Elsa

[KarynB]

Hello,

Sorry I didn't notice this thread sooner for OP....I am the one Leigh was talking about!

Anyways, we adopted from SA and our son was 5.5 months old when I started - so not too old but not newborn either! I'd be more than willing to help anyone who needs it...

Karyn

[zombie]

I was able to get both my adopted children to breastfeed. One at 5 months, the other at 23 months. I have heard about people getting 3 and a half year olds to breastfeed. It can be a lot of work. Good luck.