Women who have breastfed their babies have lower rates of breast, uterine, endometrial and ovarian cancers. Breastfeeding mothers reduce their chances of osteoporosis. And they lose weight more quickly in the early post-partum months. The breastfeeding mother is empowered by her decision to breastfeed, as she realizes that she alone is capable of providing the best food for her baby. The age of weaning, world-wide, is over 4 years old.
Breast milk continues to supply some protective value as long as it is available.
And the comfort that a child receive in being allowed to wean on her timetable is considerable. Historically, breastfeeding continued well past the age of two in most cultures. But our Western cultural value of independence is not well-served by extended breastfeeding. We Westerners need our little ones to grow up as quickly as possible, so they do not disturb our busy lives any longer than necessary. As weekend entertainment, one might say.