Salam Alaikum sister,
Allah says in the Qur’an that mothers may breastfeed their children for two complete years for those who wish to complete the nursing period (Qur’an 2:233). The Qur’an doesn’t say that breastfeeding beyond two years is haram.
The Qur’an also doesn’t specifically mention premature babies. From a medical point of view, babies born prematurely are often assessed by their corrected (adjusted) age rather than their actual birth date, so sometimes doctors recommend breastfeeding for longer depending on the baby’s needs. And none of the scholars would prohibit. This is one example of how every situation can be different, and Islam is a religion of mercy, not hardship.
If your concern is more about waiting for your child to become emotionally ready to stop on her own, it’s worth remembering that, psychologically, many children continue breastfeeding mainly because it’s a source of comfort, security, and connection with their mother rather than because they still need the milk itself.
Breastfeeding can become part of a child’s way of coping when they’re tired, upset, or seeking reassurance. So if a mother keeps waiting for the child to decide, the child may not naturally let go, even by the age of five. There’s no guarantee child will stop on their own simply because they’re older.
If you feel the time is right to stop, it’s completely okay to gently and lovingly start weaning while giving lots of cuddles, comfort, reassurance, and quality time in other ways. That helps the child learn that the closeness and love are still there and you are available even without breastfeeding.
May Allah make it easy for you and your child. 🤍