How to Stop Breastfeeding: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Making the decision to stop breastfeeding is a significant milestone in your parenting journey. It’s a process that involves careful consideration, emotional adjustment, and physical changes for both you and your child. Whether you’re contemplating this step due to personal reasons, health concerns, or it’s simply time, this guide aims to support you through this transition. We’ll cover everything from recognizing the signs that you’re both ready, to managing the emotional and physical aspects of weaning, ensuring a gentle and successful cessation of breastfeeding.

Understanding the Weaning Process

Understanding the weaning process marks a pivotal chapter in the nurturing journey shared between a mother and her child. Transitioning from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding or direct cup feeding is a significant milestone that doesn’t have to be overshadowed by worry or discomfort. By gaining insights into the weaning process and adopting a step-by-step approach, families can navigate this transition smoothly, ensuring it becomes a positive experience filled with growth and new beginnings.

Signs It’s Time to Stop Breastfeeding

Recognizing the right time to begin weaning is key to a seamless transition. This readiness can manifest in various forms, both in the child and the mother. Here are some signs to look for:

• Decreased Interest in Breastfeeding: As children grow, their curiosity and interest in the world around them expand. This can often lead to a natural decrease in interest in breastfeeding as they start to seek nourishment and comfort from other sources.
• Increased Fascination with Solid Foods: The introduction of solid foods is an exciting time for babies. Showing eagerness to try new tastes and textures is a clear indication that they are ready to explore beyond breast milk.
• Readiness of the Mother: The decision to wean can also be influenced by the mother’s readiness to transition. This could be due to various reasons, including returning to work, health reasons, or simply feeling that the time is right for both.

Understanding these signs and acknowledging them as natural progression steps can help make the decision to wean a confident and assured one.

Emotional Preparation for Mother and Child

Weaning is not just a physical transition but an emotional journey as well. Preparing both emotionally is crucial for a smooth transition.

• For the Mother: It’s common to experience a mix of emotions, from relief to sadness, as breastfeeding is not only a means of nourishment but also a profound bonding experience. Acknowledge these feelings and give yourself permission to feel them fully. Find support in family, friends, or breastfeeding support groups to share experiences and gain reassurance.
• For the Child: While some children may adapt to weaning with ease, others might find the change unsettling. To ease this transition, gradually reduce breastfeeding sessions instead of stopping abruptly. Introduce new feeding methods gently, allowing your child to become accustomed to the change at their own pace. Incorporating comforting routines, such as extra cuddles, storytime, or soothing music, can also help maintain the sense of security and closeness that breastfeeding provides.

Read more about Breastfeeding Mothers: Navigating the Emotional Challenges of Formula Feeding

Navigating the Transition

The key to a successful weaning process lies in patience and gradual progression. Here are a few strategies to consider:

• Introduce a Bottle or Cup Early: Familiarizing your child with a bottle or sippy cup alongside breastfeeding can make the transition easier when it’s time to wean.
• Replace One Feeding at a Time: Start by replacing one breastfeeding session with a bottle or cup feeding, and gradually increase this as your child becomes more comfortable with the new feeding method.
• Maintain Physical Closeness: Physical closeness is an essential aspect of the breastfeeding relationship. During and after weaning, maintain this bond through skin-to-skin contact, hugs, and affectionate play to reassure your child of your continued presence and love.

By approaching weaning as a gradual and thoughtful process, families can ensure a positive transition for both mother and child. Remember, every child’s readiness and response to weaning will differ, and what matters most is finding a path that respects and responds to these individual needs.

Gradual Weaning: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adopting a gradual approach to weaning is akin to navigating a journey with compassion and understanding, ensuring the path you and your child walk through this transition is paved with patience and care. This method not only respects the emotional and physical needs of both mother and child but also facilitates a natural and stress-free progression from breastfeeding to other forms of nourishment.

Reducing Breastfeeding Sessions Gradually

The cornerstone of a smooth weaning process is the gradual reduction of breastfeeding sessions. This approach minimizes the shock to both the emotional state and physical well-being of mother and child, making the transition more acceptable and less daunting.

• Identify Less Preferred Feedings: Begin by identifying the times of day when your child seems less interested in breastfeeding. These are the ideal sessions to eliminate first, as your child may naturally be more receptive to other forms of feeding during these times.
• Introduce Alternatives Gradually: Replace the dropped breastfeeding session with a bottle or cup of milk, or a solid meal if your child is of age. This maintains their nutritional intake and introduces them to different feeding experiences in a gentle manner.
• Monitor Your Child’s Response: Pay close attention to how your child reacts to these changes. Some children may adjust quickly, while others might need more time and reassurance. Adjust your pace accordingly, ensuring your child feels secure and supported throughout the process.

Comfort Measures for Both Mother and Child

The weaning process is a significant change for both mother and child, and it’s essential to address the physical and emotional adjustments that come with it.

For the Child:

• • Offer Extra Cuddles and Reassurance: Your child may seek more comfort during this transition. Offer extra cuddles, affection, and reassurance to help them feel secure and loved.
  • Maintain a Consistent Routine: Keeping other routines consistent can provide a sense of stability for your child. Regular meal, nap, and play times can help ease the uncertainty that may come with weaning.

For the Mother:

• • Manage Physical Discomfort: Engorgement and discomfort may occur as your body adjusts to the reduced demand for milk. Cabbage leaves, cold compresses, and gentle breast massage can offer relief. Ensure you stay hydrated and wear supportive bras to help manage these physical changes.
  • Seek Support: It’s also vital for mothers to seek emotional support during this time. Talking with partners, friends, or joining a support group can provide comfort and reassurance.

Navigating the Journey Together

Gradual weaning is more than just a series of steps; it’s a journey you embark on with your child, marked by respect to each other’s needs and emotions. By reducing breastfeeding sessions gradually and employing comforting measures, you pave the way for a transition that honors the bond between mother and child, ensuring that the weaning process strengthens rather than challenges this special connection.

Remember, each child’s readiness and ability to adapt to weaning will vary. Trust your instincts, be patient with yourself and your child, and allow the process to unfold in a way that feels natural and right for both of you. Weaning is not just an end to breastfeeding but a new chapter in your nurturing journey, one that opens up a world of growth, discovery, and deeper bonding.

Nutrition After Weaning

Navigating the nutritional landscape after weaning is a crucial aspect of your child’s development. As you transition away from breastfeeding, it’s vital to ensure that your child continues to receive all the essential nutrients needed for healthy growth and development. This period offers a unique opportunity to introduce your child to a diverse array of foods and flavors, setting the foundation for healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime.

Introducing Alternative Milk Sources

Once breastfeeding concludes, it’s important to provide your child with a suitable alternative source of milk to ensure they continue to receive necessary nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.

• Whole Cow’s Milk: For children over 12 months, whole cow’s milk is often recommended as it provides a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein. However, it’s crucial to consult your pediatrician to determine the right time and approach for introducing cow’s milk.
• Toddler Formula: In some cases, a toddler formula might be recommended, especially for children who may need extra nutrients or for those who are not receiving a sufficient variety from their diet. Toddler formulas are fortified with vitamins and minerals and can serve as a beneficial supplement during this transition.
• Non-Dairy Alternatives: For families who prefer non-dairy options or for children with allergies or intolerances, there are several fortified non-dairy milk alternatives available, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Choose versions that are fortified with calcium and vitamin D to ensure your child receives these essential nutrients.

Balancing a Post-Weaning Diet

As your child transitions to a diet less reliant on breast milk or baby formula, offering a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, protein sources, and healthy fats is crucial for their growth and development.

• Fruits and Vegetables: Aim to introduce a wide variety of colors and textures. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are essential for healthy development and digestion.
• Grains: Include whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice in your child’s diet. These provide energy, fiber, and important B vitamins.
• Protein Sources: Offer lean proteins such as poultry, fish, eggs, and legumes. These foods are vital for growth and muscle development. For vegetarian and vegan diets, ensure that you’re providing adequate plant-based proteins to meet their needs.
• Healthy Fats: Don’t shy away from healthy fats, which are crucial for brain development. Avocados, nuts (if no allergies are present), seeds, and fish like salmon are excellent sources of healthy fats.

Tips for a Successful Dietary Transition

• Gradual Introduction: Introduce new foods one at a time and in small amounts to monitor for any allergic reactions and to allow your child to get accustomed to new tastes and textures.
• Encourage Self-Feeding: Whenever possible, encourage your child to explore foods through self-feeding. This can help develop their motor skills and promote a positive relationship with food.
• Be Patient and Persistent: Children may need to be exposed to a new food multiple times before they’re willing to try it. Don’t be discouraged by initial rejections.
• Set a Good Example: Children learn by example, so eating a variety of healthy foods yourself can encourage them to do the same.

Transitioning your child to a balanced diet after weaning is an exciting journey that can influence their health and eating habits positively for years to come. By introducing a variety of nutrient-rich foods, you’re not only providing the essential building blocks for their physical growth but also laying the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy eating habits.

Emotional Support and Bonding

The weaning process, while a natural step in your child’s development, marks a transition that can stir a mix of emotions, both for you and your little one. Beyond the physical nourishment breastfeeding provides, it’s also a profound source of comfort and connection. As you navigate through this phase, finding alternative ways to foster emotional support and bonding becomes paramount to reassure your child of your unwavering love and presence.

Maintaining Closeness After Weaning

The end of breastfeeding does not signify the end of the special bond you share with your child. In fact, it opens new avenues to strengthen your connection in different, equally meaningful ways.

• Read Together: Sharing stories is a beautiful way to bond. It’s not just about reading words on a page but about the shared experience, the sound of your voice, and the closeness it brings.
• Playtime: Engage in activities that both you and your child enjoy. Whether it’s building with blocks, playing pretend, or exploring the outdoors, playtime offers invaluable opportunities for bonding.
• Snuggle Time: Physical closeness is still essential. Set aside time for cuddles, hugs, and quiet moments together. This can be especially comforting during times when your child might miss breastfeeding.

Activities to Enhance Bonding

Creating new routines and rituals can help fill the space that weaning leaves, ensuring your child continues to feel secure, loved, and valued.

• Mealtime Bonding: Use meals as a time to connect. Sitting together at the table, talking about your day, and enjoying food together can make mealtime a special bonding experience.
• Bedtime Rituals: Establish a comforting bedtime routine that includes reading, singing lullabies, or gentle massages. These activities can help your child wind down and feel loved and secure at the end of the day.
• Create Together: Engage in creative activities like drawing, painting, or crafting. These are not only fun but also offer a sense of achievement and togetherness.
• Explore Nature: Spend time outdoors exploring nature together. Walks in the park, visits to the beach, or hikes through the woods can create lasting memories and a deep sense of connection.

Fostering Emotional Well-being

• Express Your Feelings: Let your child know they are loved and cherished. Verbal affirmations, along with your actions, reinforce their sense of security and belonging.
• Listen and Observe: Pay attention to your child’s cues and be responsive to their needs. Listening and observing allow you to understand and support their emotional well-being better.

The process of weaning not only signifies a significant change in your child’s feeding routine but also initiates a series of physical and hormonal adjustments within a mother’s body. Understanding and managing these changes effectively can help ease the transition, ensuring both comfort and health are maintained.

Coping with Engorgement and Discomfort

One of the immediate physical changes many mothers experience during weaning is breast engorgement and discomfort. This occurs as your body adjusts to the decreased demand for milk production. Here are some strategies to manage these symptoms:

• Gentle Massage: Carefully massaging your breasts can help alleviate discomfort and facilitate milk flow, reducing engorgement. Focus on areas that feel particularly full or uncomfortable.
• Expressing Milk: If engorgement becomes too uncomfortable, expressing a small amount of milk can offer relief. However, be mindful not to express too much, as this can signal your body to produce more milk.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial during weaning. Water, herbal teas, and broths can help maintain hydration and support overall breast health.
• Warm Compresses and Cold Packs: Applying warm compresses before feeding or expressing can help ease milk flow. Conversely, cold packs applied after feeding or expressing can reduce inflammation and discomfort.
• Supportive Bra: Wearing a supportive, well-fitting bra can help manage discomfort associated with engorgement. Avoid overly tight bras, as they can contribute to clogged ducts.

Adjusting Your Diet for Hormonal Balance

Weaning can also trigger hormonal shifts that may affect your emotional and physical well-being. Adjusting your diet to support hormonal balance can play a pivotal role in navigating these changes smoothly:

• Leafy Greens: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in minerals and vitamins that support liver function and hormone regulation.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, which are beneficial for hormonal health.
• Whole Grains: Foods like quinoa, brown rice, and oats are high in B vitamins and fiber, supporting steady blood sugar levels and a healthy hormonal balance.
• Protein: Including a good source of protein at each meal can help balance hormones. Options include lean meats, fish, legumes, and tofu.
• Healthy Fats: Avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish like salmon provide essential fatty acids that are crucial for hormone production and balance.

Additional Tips for Managing Physical Changes

• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular, moderate exercise can help regulate hormones, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
• Adequate Rest: Ensuring you get enough sleep is vital during this transitional period, as rest plays a crucial role in hormonal balance and recovery.
• Stress Management: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can be effective in managing stress and supporting emotional and physical health during weaning.

By addressing engorgement and discomfort with practical measures and supporting your body’s hormonal balance through dietary adjustments, you can navigate the weaning process with greater ease and comfort. Remember, this transition is not only a significant change for your child but also a period of adjustment for you. Taking care of your physical and emotional health is essential during this time.

The Role of Solid Foods in Weaning

As the journey of weaning progresses, solid foods begin to take center stage in your child’s nutritional landscape. This transition from liquid to more solid forms of nourishment is a pivotal developmental milestone, fostering independence, promoting fine motor skills, and ensuring that your child receives a broad spectrum of nutrients necessary for healthy growth. Understanding the nuances of introducing solids and employing strategies for a smooth transition can make this phase exciting and enriching for both you and your child.

Introducing Solids: When and How

The introduction of solid foods typically begins around the age of 6 months, but readiness can vary from one child to another. Here are key pointers to guide you through this process:

• Signs of Readiness: Look for signs that your child is ready for solids, such as being able to sit up with minimal support, showing interest in food, and the ability to swallow food rather than pushing it out with their tongue.
• Start with Simple Foods: Begin with single-ingredient, soft, and easy-to-digest foods. Pureed fruits and vegetables, iron-fortified cereals mixed with breast milk, formula, or water, and mashed foods are excellent starting points.
• Gradual Texture Progression: As your child becomes accustomed to these initial foods, gradually introduce more varied textures. This can include thicker purees, soft mashed foods, and eventually, small, soft pieces of whole foods.
• Maintain a Relaxed Atmosphere: Make meal times stress-free and enjoyable. Encourage exploration and allow your child to interact with their food, even if it gets a bit messy.

Tips for Smooth Transition

A thoughtful approach to introducing solids can ease the transition for your child, paving the way for a positive relationship with food.

• Variety is Key: Offer a wide range of foods early on to expose your child to different flavors and textures. This variety not only ensures a balanced intake of nutrients but can also help prevent pickiness later.
• Follow Your Child’s Cues: Pay attention to your child’s hunger and fullness cues. Let them lead the way in how much they want to eat, promoting self-regulation and a healthy appetite.
• Be Patient and Persistent: It’s normal for children to be wary of new foods. If your child doesn’t take to a particular food at first, don’t give up. Try reintroducing it after a week or two, as repeated exposure can help build familiarity and acceptance.
• Eat Together: Whenever possible, eat as a family. Seeing others eat and enjoy food can encourage your child to try new foods and enjoy meal times.
• Keep Breastfeeding or Formula: As solid foods are introduced, continue breastfeeding or formula feeding. These remain important sources of nutrition and comfort during the transition.

The transition to solid foods is a significant step in your child’s weaning journey, opening up a new world of tastes, textures, and nutritional opportunities. By introducing solids thoughtfully and responding to your child’s readiness and cues, you can support their growth, development, and enjoyment of food in a way that sets a positive foundation for healthy eating habits throughout their life. Remember, every child’s journey is unique, and embracing this process with patience and enthusiasm will make these moments of exploration and discovery joyous for both you and your child.

When to Seek Professional Help

Embarking on the weaning journey is a significant transition for both mother and child, filled with moments of joy, challenges, and learning curves. While many aspects of weaning can be navigated with patience and the wealth of shared experiences from other parents, there are times when professional guidance becomes invaluable. Recognizing when to seek this help can ensure that the weaning process remains a healthy, positive experience for everyone involved.

Challenges in Weaning

Several indicators suggest it might be time to consult a healthcare professional during the weaning process:

• Persistent Discomfort: If you, as a mother, experience ongoing discomfort, such as engorgement, plugged ducts, or mastitis, it’s important to seek advice. These conditions, if left untreated, can lead to more serious complications.
• Emotional Distress: Weaning can be an emotional rollercoaster. Feelings of sadness or depression are not uncommon due to hormonal shifts. If these feelings persist or interfere with your daily life, professional support can be beneficial.
• Child’s Refusal to Eat or Drink: While some resistance to changes in feeding is normal, a persistent refusal to eat or drink, leading to concerns about hydration or nutrition, warrants professional evaluation.
• Slow Weight Gain or Loss: If your child is not gaining weight as expected or is losing weight during or after the weaning process, this could indicate nutritional deficiencies or other health issues that need addressing.

Consulting Healthcare Providers

Knowing whom to turn to can make a significant difference in addressing weaning-related challenges effectively:

• Lactation Consultant: These specialists can provide invaluable support if you’re struggling with the physical aspects of weaning, such as engorgement or mastitis. They can also offer strategies for gradual weaning, ensuring comfort for both mother and child.
• Pediatrician: Your child’s doctor can assess any concerns related to your child’s nutrition, weight gain, or general health during the weaning process. They can guide you on suitable solid foods, monitor your child’s growth, and address any developmental concerns.
• Family Doctor or General Practitioner: For mothers experiencing emotional distress or health issues during weaning, a family doctor can offer medical advice, support, and referrals to specialists if necessary.

Making the Decision to Seek Help

Deciding to seek professional help is a step towards ensuring the well-being of both mother and child. It’s a proactive measure that can provide peace of mind, practical solutions, and the reassurance that you’re not alone in facing weaning challenges. Healthcare professionals can offer a compassionate, informed perspective, making the transition smoother and more manageable.

Creating a Weaning Plan

Creating a weaning plan tailored to the unique needs of your family can transform this transition from a challenging period into a more manageable and positive experience. A personalized weaning plan not only respects the individuality of your child but also considers your circumstances, making the process as smooth as possible for everyone involved.

Personalizing Your Approach

Weaning is not a one-size-fits-all process. Each child responds differently to changes in their feeding routine, and what works for one family might not work for another. To develop a plan that’s right for you, consider the following:

• Child’s Readiness: Look for signs that your child is ready to wean, such as a decreased interest in breastfeeding, curiosity about solid foods, and the ability to sit up and swallow food. Starting the weaning process when your child shows these signs can make the transition easier.
• Your Feelings: Your readiness to wean is just as important as your child’s. Consider your own emotional and physical readiness, and think about how weaning fits into your lifestyle, including returning to work or managing your health.
• External Factors: Other factors, such as the need to return to work, health issues, or advice from your pediatrician, can influence the timing and method of weaning. Consider how these factors impact your weaning plan.

Setting Realistic Goals and Timelines

Approaching weaning with flexibility and patience is key to a successful transition. Here’s how to set realistic goals and timelines:

• Gradual Transition: Weaning gradually over several weeks or even months can help minimize discomfort for both mother and child and allow time for emotional adjustment. Set a flexible timeline that can be adjusted based on how you and your child are coping with the process.
• Goal Setting: Define clear, achievable goals for each stage of weaning. Whether it’s introducing a new food each week, replacing one breastfeeding session with a bottle or cup, or eliminating nighttime feedings, having specific goals can help you track progress and make adjustments as needed.
• Patience is Vital: Understand that setbacks are a normal part of the weaning process. Your child may accept changes one day and resist them the next. Being patient and giving your child time to adjust at their own pace is crucial.

Implementing Your Plan When You Stop Breastfeeding

With your approach personalized and your goals set, begin implementing your plan with these strategies:

• Introduce New Foods and Feeding Methods: Gradually introduce solid foods and other milk sources to your child’s diet. Offer a variety of textures and flavors to encourage a well-rounded diet.
• Stay Consistent but Flexible: Consistency helps your child adjust to new routines, but it’s also important to be flexible. If a particular strategy isn’t working, be willing to try something different.
• Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek advice and support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends. Sharing your experiences and challenges can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Creating a personalized weaning plan involves understanding your child’s needs, setting realistic goals, and being prepared to adjust your approach as you go. Remember, weaning is a significant milestone in your child’s development and a process that signifies growth and independence. By planning carefully and responding to the needs of your child, you can ensure that this transition is a positive and fulfilling experience for both of you.

Common Concerns and Solutions

Weaning, as a significant developmental milestone, often comes with its share of challenges and concerns for both parents and children. Understanding how to navigate these obstacles can help make the transition smoother and more manageable. Here’s a guide to addressing some common concerns associated with weaning, providing practical solutions to ensure both you and your child move through this period with ease and confidence.

Handling Resistance and Setbacks

Resistance to weaning is a common issue many parents face. It’s a natural part of the process, as your child may be reluctant to give up the comfort and familiarity of breastfeeding. Here are strategies to manage resistance:

• Stay Consistent: Consistency is key in helping your child adjust to new routines. Even when facing resistance, gently but firmly offer alternatives to breastfeeding, such as a cup or bottle of milk, to help them adapt.
• Be Patient: Remember that weaning is a gradual process. It’s important to proceed at a pace that’s comfortable for your child, allowing them time to adjust to the changes.
• Offer Reassurance: Your child may need extra comfort during this time. Offer plenty of cuddles, affection, and reassurance to help them feel secure and loved, even without breastfeeding.
• Provide Alternatives: Introduce new and exciting aspects of transitioning from breastfeeding, such as trying new foods or drinks, which can make the process more appealing to your child.

Dealing with Emotional Ups and Downs

Both mothers and children may experience a range of emotions during the weaning process. Here’s how to navigate these emotional changes:

• Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions, from sadness and loss to relief and freedom. Acknowledge these feelings as part of the weaning process.
• Seek Support: Connecting with friends, family, or support groups who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly comforting. Sharing your experiences and hearing others’ stories can provide perspective and reassurance.
• Focus on the Positive: Remind yourself of the reasons for weaning and the new opportunities it brings for both you and your child to grow and explore new foods and bonding activities.
• Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize your well-being by ensuring you get enough rest, engage in activities you enjoy, and seek professional help if you’re struggling to cope with the emotional aspects of weaning.

FAQs about How to Stop Breastfeeding

These FAQs provide a foundation for understanding and navigating the weaning process. Remember, every family’s journey is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Stay attuned to your and your child’s needs, and don’t hesitate to seek support from healthcare professionals if you encounter challenges.

Conclusion how to stop breastfeeding

Stop breastfeeding is a big step for both moms and their kids. It’s all about doing it slowly and making sure everyone feels okay during the change. Here are some key points:

1. Know When It’s Time: Look for signs that your little one is ready to try new foods or isn’t as interested in breastfeeding. Moms should also feel ready for this change.
2. Go Slow: Start by cutting down one breastfeeding session at a time and replace it with a bottle or a new solid food your child likes. This helps both mom and child get used to the new routine without too much stress.
3. Stay Comfortable: If moms feel discomfort because of less breastfeeding, gentle massage and cold or warm compresses can help. It’s important to stay hydrated too.
4. Keep Bonding: Just because breastfeeding stops, doesn’t mean the special connection with your child has to. Reading, playing, and cuddling are great ways to keep that bond strong.
5. Eat Right: After weaning, make sure your child gets all kinds of healthy foods to eat. This includes fruits, veggies, grains, and proteins to help them grow strong.

Remember, every child and mom is different, so what works for one might not work for another. It’s okay to take your time and find what’s best for you and your child. If you’re ever unsure or need help, doctors and experts are there to support you through it.