Hi,

It sounds like you are ready to wean and by the time I write this, the worst of it might be over. It's normal to havie some conflicting emotions, as a mother, about the weaning process. You have fed your son really long and really well - you have done a great job, and if you feel like you are ready to wean, that's all that matters.

I really don't know much about the pills you are on, but it is unlikely that they would have necessitated weaning. There are really very, very few drugs or herbs that are contraindicated with breastfeeding. Unfortunately, most drug companies don't give a rats about breastfeeding and most packets come with a piece of paper containing an inaccurate "cover your arse" clause stating that they should not be taken while breastfeding. Breastfeeding in it'self doesn not "cause" your periods to be close together. It's a shame your health provider didn't look at the underlying issues, rather than just grabbing for the potential "quick fix".

I was also interested in your statement that if you didn't continue with weaning your son would see himself as "the boss of you". It is normal at his age to want to let his feelings be known. Breastfeeding is the norm for 18mnth olds - it provides significant comfort and food - it's normal for him to protest against a sudden weaning.

The need for consistency is sold to us with parenting. But what if you decided to resume breastfeeding. Would it show him you are weak? Or would it show him that he was heard and understood? That his point of view was respected? That when you realised how intense his needs were you were able to consider those. Would he learn (OK - this is a bit complx for an 18mnth old - but he will pick up the feeling) that you were human. That you made the best decision you could based on the facts you had at the time, but when you recieved other information, you were able to reconsider your position. Is it so bad as a parent to "change your mind"? I can't see how or why.

As my children have grown I have had a fair bit of experience in being wrong, making mistakes. It can be really very powerful and bonding to be able to say "sorry" to your children. To admit to making mistakes, to be able to consider a decision in light of new information and be prepared to change it.
Anyway, best of luck with the weaning experience, let us know how you go