The body naturally prepares for lactation during pregnancy, and milk “coming in” is a physiological process that occurs regardless of feeding intentions. For those choosing not to breastfeed, understanding how to stop milk production is important. This guidance provides practical information for managing this transition effectively, allowing for comfort and a smooth cessation of milk supply.
Effective Strategies for Drying Up Milk Supply
Stopping milk production primarily involves signaling to the body that there is no demand for milk. Minimizing breast stimulation is a fundamental step. Avoid any pumping or hand expression, unless for minimal pressure relief, to prevent further milk synthesis. Similarly, turn away from direct hot water on the breasts during showers, as it can stimulate milk flow.
Wearing a firm, supportive bra, day and night, offers comfort and gentle compression to aid in suppressing lactation. This bra should not be overly tight or binding, as excessive pressure can lead to blocked milk ducts. Applying cold compresses or ice packs to the breasts can help reduce swelling and discomfort, while also potentially inhibiting milk production.
Chilled green cabbage leaves are often used to reduce engorgement and possibly milk supply. They can be placed inside the bra, covering the breast but leaving the nipple exposed, and changed when they wilt. While some research suggests they primarily alleviate engorgement pain, they are a widely adopted comfort measure.
Certain herbal remedies are anecdotally associated with reducing milk supply. These include:
Sage
Peppermint
Parsley
Chasteberry
Jasmine
Sage tea is often mentioned for this purpose. However, scientific evidence supporting their efficacy is limited, and consultation with a healthcare provider is important before using any herbal supplements. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can manage discomfort during this period, though they do not directly influence milk production.
Prescription medications for lactation suppression are generally reserved for specific medical situations and are not routinely used due to potential side effects. These medications, such as cabergoline or certain estrogen-containing birth control pills, primarily affect prolactin levels, the hormone responsible for milk production. Their use requires medical supervision and a discussion of benefits and risks.
Navigating the Drying Up Process
The process of milk drying up varies among individuals, typically taking several days to a few weeks for the supply to decrease. For some, it is a gradual reduction, while for others, discomfort can peak within the first three to four days. Even after the main supply has ceased, occasional drops or small amounts of milk can occur for weeks or months afterward.
Engorgement, where breasts feel full, heavy, warm, and tender, is a normal part of this process as milk accumulates without being removed. This fullness signals the body to reduce milk production. Along with engorgement, breast pain and tenderness are expected symptoms. Some lumpiness may also occur due to milk-filled ducts, which tends to resolve as the milk dries.
Occasional milk leakage is common as the supply diminishes. To manage these symptoms, continue using cold compresses or ice packs to reduce swelling and provide comfort. A supportive bra remains beneficial in alleviating pressure. If engorgement becomes extremely uncomfortable, a minimal amount of hand expression, just enough to relieve pressure and soften the breast, can be done. It is important not to empty the breast completely, as this signals the body to produce more milk.
Hormonal shifts during this period can lead to emotional fluctuations. The body undergoes significant changes as it adjusts from the post-delivery hormonal state, which can influence mood and emotional well-being. Recognizing these emotional aspects can help individuals prepare and seek support if needed.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While drying up milk is a natural process, certain signs warrant medical evaluation to rule out complications. A fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius) or higher, accompanied by chills and body aches, can indicate a breast infection such as mastitis. Other symptoms of mastitis include a red, swollen, or warm area on the breast, often in a wedge-shaped pattern, and flu-like symptoms.
Persistent hard lumps in the breast that do not soften or disappear should be examined by a healthcare provider. Any unusual discharge from the nipple, such as pus or foul-smelling fluid, requires medical attention. If breast pain is severe and not relieved by over-the-counter medication or comfort measures, seek medical advice. These signs suggest an issue that may need medical intervention beyond typical discomfort management.