When a person decides not to breastfeed or to stop, the body naturally begins lactation suppression, or “drying up” the milk supply. This physiological adjustment occurs as mammary glands cease milk production due to lack of demand. The body, operating on a supply-and-demand principle, receives signals that milk is no longer being removed, prompting it to gradually halt production and return to a non-lactating state.
Understanding the Timeline
The duration it takes for breast milk to dry up varies considerably among individuals. For those who do not breastfeed at all after childbirth, the process typically takes about seven to ten days for hormonal levels to normalize and milk production to significantly decrease. However, some individuals may experience a full cessation of milk production within a few days, while others might notice small amounts of milk or droplets for weeks or even months. This individual variation is influenced by several factors, including how long a person breastfed previously, if at all, and their unique hormonal responses. The amount of milk the body was producing also plays a role, with a higher supply potentially taking longer to diminish.
Managing Discomfort
As milk production slows, individuals may experience physical symptoms such as breast engorgement, tenderness, and leaking. Engorgement occurs when breasts become overly full, feeling firm, warm, and heavy, which can be quite uncomfortable.
To alleviate this discomfort, wearing a supportive, well-fitting bra day and night can provide gentle compression, helping manage swelling. Applying cold compresses or ice packs for 15 to 20 minutes can reduce pain and inflammation. Some individuals find relief by placing chilled, fresh cabbage leaves inside their bra, changing them when they wilt. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also be used to manage pain and swelling.
Strategies to Aid the Process
To encourage milk supply to diminish, the primary strategy involves reducing breast stimulation. Avoiding nipple stimulation from direct contact, clothing friction, or water during showers is important, as it signals the body to produce more milk. When experiencing engorgement, express only enough milk to relieve pressure and discomfort, rather than fully emptying the breasts. Complete emptying can stimulate further milk production, counteracting the drying process.
Maintaining adequate fluid intake is necessary for overall health, but excessive fluids will not speed up the drying process. Certain herbs like sage and peppermint are anecdotally linked to reducing milk supply, though scientific evidence is inconclusive. Some medications, such as pseudoephedrine or estrogen-containing birth control, may also help suppress lactation, but these should only be considered under healthcare professional guidance due to potential side effects and interactions.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While milk drying up is a natural process, certain signs and symptoms warrant medical attention to rule out complications. A persistent fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius) or higher, especially if accompanied by flu-like symptoms like body aches and chills, can indicate a breast infection such as mastitis. The presence of red streaks on the breast, a warm or swollen area, or a painful lump that does not resolve are also concerning symptoms. If there is any pus or unusual discharge draining from the nipple, or if you experience severe breast pain that is not relieved by comfort measures, it is important to consult a healthcare provider.