It is completely normal to be unsure about how long to breastfeed. Some desire a clear "plan," while others take it more as it comes. In practice, the duration of breastfeeding is a combination of recommendations, the child's development, and the family's daily life. Below, you will find a concrete and practical guide, based on public guidelines from, among others, the Danish Health Authority, Sundhed.dk, and WHO.

In Denmark, the Danish Health Authority generally recommends:

• Exclusive breastfeeding for approximately the first 6 months.
• Partial breastfeeding for 12 months or longer, if both mother and child thrive.

The important thing is that these recommendations are precisely guidelines. Some stop earlier due to, for example, pain, illness, low milk production, or the need to return to work. Others breastfeed longer because it works well for their family. If you are unsure about what suits you, you can use your health visitor as a sparring partner. (Source: Danish Health Authority, “Amning”, sst.dk)

WHO recommends:

• Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months.
• Continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods up to 2 years or longer.

If you are looking for a "global benchmark," WHO's recommendations are often cited. This does not mean that everyone should breastfeed until 2 years old, but that there is health professional support for continued breastfeeding if it works for mother and child. (Source: WHO, “Breastfeeding”, who.int)

The terms may sound technical, but they are practical to know because they indicate where you are in the process.

Exclusive breastfeeding means that the baby receives milk as its sole nutrition (typically breast milk), and that it is not supplemented with formula or solid food as part of its daily diet. This is often where questions like "how often should a newborn be breastfed?" are most prevalent. (Sources: WHO; Danish Health Authority)

Partial breastfeeding means that the baby is both breastfed and receives other food, such as porridge, purees, and later family-friendly meals, as well as possibly formula. Many continue partial breastfeeding for a period because it provides closeness, comfort, and flexibility, while the baby gradually eats more regular food. (Source: Danish Health Authority)

There isn't one "right" time, but these points can help you assess what suits you now:

• The baby has awake periods, seems satisfied after meals, and follows their growth curve during check-ups.
• You experience less pain over time, and breastfeeding feels more routine.
• You find a rhythm where breastfeeding fits in without consuming all your time.

Sundhed.dk describes that frequency can vary greatly, especially in the beginning, and that it is common for the baby to want to breastfeed more often at times. For persistent pain, sores, or concerns about the baby's well-being, you should seek help early. (Source: Sundhed.dk, “Amning”, sundhed.dk)

• Breastfeeding constantly feels stressful or painful.
• You are concerned about milk supply or the baby's well-being.
• Practical circumstances make it difficult to continue without support.

Gradual weaning can be done, for example, by removing one feeding at a time and replacing it with food or a bottle, depending on the child's age and needs. Feel free to talk to your health visitor about a plan that is safe for both you and your child. (Source: Sundhed.dk)

Few breastfeeding journeys are "problem-free" from day one, and small adjustments can make a big difference.

Breasts often change throughout both pregnancy and breastfeeding. Many find that a nursing bra without underwire is more gentle. If you want support without underwire, gel support can be an alternative because it is designed to provide shape and support without the same risk of pressure on tissue and milk ducts. An example is the Gel-Support® maternity and nursing bra.

Leakage is common, especially in the beginning and between feedings. Washable nursing pads can be a practical solution in everyday life, e.g., Washable 6x Silk Breast Pads. Seek help if you experience persistent sores or severe pain. (Source: Sundhed.dk)

If you are breastfeeding at night, something soft and flexible that does not constrict when you lie down can help. A night bra can make night feeding simpler, for example, the Sleeping Nursing Bra.

• Exclusive breastfeeding is typically recommended for approximately the first 6 months. (Sources: Danish Health Authority; WHO)
• Partial breastfeeding can continue for 12 months or longer if it works for you. (Source: Danish Health Authority)
• WHO indicates that continued breastfeeding may be relevant up to 2 years or longer in conjunction with appropriate nutrition. (Source: WHO)

This article provides general information and cannot replace personal advice. Contact a health visitor, doctor, or midwife if you are concerned about pain, milk production, or your child's well-being.

WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, after which the baby typically receives complementary foods alongside breastfeeding. (Source: WHO)

Guidelines often suggest around 6 months, but it also depends on the child's development and readiness. Follow the advice of your health visitor and national recommendations. (Source: Danish Health Authority)

Yes, the Danish Health Authority describes partial breastfeeding for 12 months or longer as an option, if mother and child wish it. (Source: Danish Health Authority)

Yes, many combine. If you want to maintain breastfeeding, it may be relevant to get help with a plan that supports both direct breastfeeding and pumping, depending on what suits you. (Source: Sundhed.dk)

The safest way is to monitor your child's well-being and growth at check-ups and respond to persistent concerns. If in doubt, contact your health visitor or doctor. (Source: Sundhed.dk)

Sources (public guidelines):
Danish Health Authority: https://www.sst.dk/da/Borger/Graviditet-og-smaaboern/Barnets-sundhed/Anbefalinger-om-kost-til-spaed--og-smaaboern/Amning
Sundhed.dk: https://www.sundhed.dk/borger/patienthaandbogen/boern/om-boern/det-nyfoedte-barn/amning/
WHO: https://www.who.int/en/health-topics/breastfeeding