How Long Should I Breastfeed My Baby?
WHO recommendations, the real benefits of breastfeeding past 6 months, how to wean gently, and what Singapore law says about nursing at work.
What the Guidelines Say
The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods until 2 years of age or beyond. This is the global public health recommendation.
The Health Promotion Board (HPB) Singapore aligns with WHO guidance: exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with continued breastfeeding alongside solids for as long as mutually desired by mother and baby. HPB runs the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative with several Singapore hospitals.
What "exclusive breastfeeding" means
Exclusive breastfeeding means breast milk only - no water, formula, juice, or solid foods. Expressed breast milk given by bottle counts as exclusive breastfeeding. Vitamin D drops are compatible with exclusive breastfeeding and are recommended in many countries (discuss with your paediatrician).
Benefits of Breastfeeding Past 6 Months
Breastfeeding benefits do not stop at 6 months - they continue and in some areas strengthen throughout the second year. Here is what the evidence supports:
| Benefit | Evidence | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Immune protection | Strong | IgA antibodies in milk increase in concentration in the second year |
| Reduced respiratory illness | Strong | Protective for as long as breastfeeding continues |
| Nutritional contribution | Strong | In the second year, milk provides significant fat, protein, vitamins A and B12 |
| Emotional security | Moderate | Toddlers often use breastfeeding for comfort during transitions |
| Reduced maternal breast cancer risk | Strong | Risk reduction increases with duration of breastfeeding |
Weaning Approaches
The right time to wean is when it is right for you and your baby together. There is no single correct answer.
Natural weaning (baby-led)
Letting baby gradually reduce and eventually stop on their own. Most children wean naturally between 2 and 4 years of age. This is the least disruptive approach for both mother and baby. Supply gradually reduces as feeds decrease.
Gradual mother-led weaning
Drop one feed every 1-2 weeks, starting with the feed the baby is least attached to (often midday). This allows supply to adjust slowly and minimises discomfort. Usually takes 4-8 weeks for full weaning. Distraction and alternative comfort for dropped feeds helps.
Abrupt weaning
Stopping suddenly is usually the hardest emotionally for both mother and baby, and carries risk of engorgement and mastitis for the mother. If abrupt weaning is medically necessary (e.g., medication contraindication), regular expression to comfort (not to empty) will help manage engorgement. Cabbage leaves and cold packs reduce discomfort. Speak to your GP about medication options if needed.
Breastfeeding Rights at Work in Singapore
Singapore's Employment Act does not currently mandate dedicated paid breaks for pumping or a private space for expressing milk. However, several practical protections and resources exist:
What the law does say
The Tripartite Alliance for Fair Employment Practices (TAFEP) guidelines encourage employers to support breastfeeding mothers, including providing a private space and allowing reasonable breaks. These are guidelines, not legal requirements. However, discrimination against a breastfeeding employee may be covered under unfair dismissal provisions.
Maternity leave entitlement in Singapore ranges from 8 to 16 weeks depending on whether baby is a Singapore citizen and whether the employer qualifies for Government Paid Maternity Leave.
Public pumping and expressing spaces in Singapore
HPB has partnered with several organisations to create a network of "Expressing Rooms" accessible to breastfeeding mothers. These can be found at some MRT stations (e.g., Raffles Place), major shopping malls, and hospitals. The Baby-Friendly Workplace database on the HPB website lists employer-provided facilities. Many Fairprice, NTUC FairPrice, and major mall nursing rooms are accessible to non-shoppers on request.