If you've entered into the extended breastfeeding stage – nursing beyond your child's first year of life – I have one thing to say to you:

BRAVO!!!

Enjoy that compliment from me because you probably won't hear that too much from others. More so the response will probably be that of disapproval.

Without picking on moms who weaned earlier, extended breastfeeding isn't the norm; it's much more common for breastfeeding to end between the baby’s four- and six-month birthday.

There are many benefits of extended breastfeeding, but if you made it past that milestone and have kept on going, don't be surprised if people around you can hardly contain their surprise. You'll be on display!

I'm a big advocate of extended breastfeeding and I applaud any mom that goes beyond the "norm". I am walking this path with you.

It was expected as my baby approached her first birthday that I would wean her. That was not my intentions. My daughter was still enjoying nursing, as was I, and there weren't any other factors for me wanting or needing to stop breastfeeding.

I figured the benefits of continuing to breastfeed beyond the first year out-weighed the reasons to wean. Babies continue to have a boosted immune system from the breast milk, helping them to stave off illnesses.

It's okay to cut back on the nursing sessions once they've reached one year. They will receive all the benefits of a baby nursing full time.

Many moms seem most concerned about handling a teething breastfeeding toddler. Being bit while nursing does hurt, however you can teach your teething toddler to not bite. They are smart enough to pick up on this type of training.

There are different ways of balancing starting solids with nursing that allow your baby to try new foods, but continue a healthy nursing pattern. Offer your baby solid foods first, so they will be hungry enough to start eating from the table. Offer to breastfeed after meals or at nap / bed time.

Let's discuss breastfeeding and sex? And possibly how to recognize signs of pregnancy when breastfeeding.

Normally it's more the man that is concerned about sex. Being aware and considerate of his concerns will help you to have a healthy relationship. Talk it over with him and come to a comfortable agreement with the extended breastfeeding. Assure him it will not affect the love making.

Ovulating while breastfeeding might be different for a while as your body balances out, but the whole breastfeeding and menstrual cycle returning will eventually coincide and make it easier to predict your more fertile days.

If you are trying to get pregnant, it's important to make sure you are taking optimum care of yourself. Breastfeeding and pregnancy are very demanding on the body. Decide if you want to continue to breastfeed while pregnant, or if you want to wean once you see the positive pregnancy test.

Again, congratulations on continuing this wonderful path of nursing your child. Keep up the good work!