Can breastfeeding be restarted after 9.5 months? Looking for relactation experiences
Hi everyone,
My baby is now 9.5 months old, and I’m wondering if it’s possible to restart breastfeeding after such a long gap.
Here is our feeding history:
Birth–2 months: Breast milk + formula
3–5 months: Formula only
6–7 months: Formula + cow's milk
From around 7 months until now: Cow's milk diluted with water + solid foods
Now: 9.5 months old
At birth, I was under anesthesia, and the doctor gave my baby formula as his first feed. We were then advised to breastfeed and supplement with formula if needed. Unfortunately, he gradually preferred formula and stopped breastfeeding.
At the time, I didn't realize how difficult it could become to restart breastfeeding later. Now I would really like to try relactation if it is still possible.
Has anyone successfully restarted breastfeeding after 9 months, especially when the baby has completely stopped breastfeeding for several months?
I'd love to hear about your experiences:
Were you able to bring your milk supply back?
How long did it take?
Did pumping help?
How did you get your baby to latch again after such a long break?
Were you able to breastfeed partially or fully?
Did you work with a lactation consultant?
I'm not planning to suddenly change his diet. I mainly want to understand whether relactation is realistic at this age and the safest way to approach it.
Any experiences or advice would be greatly appreciated. ❤️