Most parents that leave a baby this long will notice some emotional distance when they return. And, yes, it can affect the milk supply. I am having a hard time thinking of a situation that forces mom and dad to leave for a week. A few years ago, I had a mom bring up this same situation. She was weaning because she would “need” to leave the baby for a week. After a few questions, I learned that Dad had a very important business conference, and mom was being pressured into going along to accompany him at the social events. Nothing wrong with husband and wife going to a conference together… but I felt it was a bad idea to ask mom to go against her mothering instincts and jeopardize her baby’s emotional and nutritional health. I suggested that if going with her husband was really that important, then take the baby and a “nanny” (in this case, a grandmother). This trip turned out great for everybody.

Many nine-month olds are already used to an alternative caregiver for part of the day, but it sounds like your baby is used to being with you most of the time, even sleeping close to you. My kids were like that at this age, and they weren’t ready to be left overnight till around their third birthday. If you do go, try to pump a good milk supply before you go, and then pump while you are gone to keep your supply up. I would like to know the details of your situation, because it seems there is more to this story. Thanks,