“Drying up milk” refers to the process by which the body stops producing breast milk. This cessation can occur for various reasons, including natural weaning, medical necessity, or personal choice. It involves a shift in the body’s hormonal signals and a reduction in milk removal.
How Milk Production Ends
Milk production operates on a supply-and-demand principle. When milk is regularly removed from the breasts through nursing or pumping, the body receives signals to continue production. Conversely, a reduction in milk removal signals the body to decrease its supply. This process is mediated by hormones like prolactin, which stimulates milk production, and oxytocin, which triggers milk release.
As milk removal lessens, a substance called Feedback Inhibitor of Lactation (FIL), present in breast milk, accumulates in the breast, further signaling the cells to reduce milk secretion. This physiological change leads to mammary gland involution, a process where the milk-producing epithelial cells undergo programmed cell death, and the breast tissue remodels back to a state similar to its pre-pregnancy condition.
The timeline for milk to completely dry up varies greatly among individuals, often taking several weeks. While some may notice a significant decrease in milk production within a few days, others might experience occasional leaking or the ability to express small amounts of milk for months after actively suppressing lactation. The duration of established lactation and the individual’s hormonal responses influence how quickly this transition occurs.
Influences on Milk Drying Up
Several factors can influence the speed of milk drying up. Natural weaning, where a child gradually reduces breastfeeding, allows the milk supply to diminish slowly and comfortably, often over months or even years. Abrupt cessation, however, can lead to more discomfort, including engorgement, pain, and a higher risk of complications like blocked ducts or mastitis.
Hormonal shifts also play a role. Prolactin and oxytocin levels, which support lactation, decrease as breastfeeding stops. Changes in estrogen levels, which are typically lower during breastfeeding, increase after weaning, potentially contributing to mood fluctuations.
Certain medications can also impact milk supply. Estrogen-containing birth control pills, pseudoephedrine (a decongestant found in some cold medications), and fertility drugs like clomiphene have been shown to reduce milk production. Additionally, the frequency and completeness of milk removal directly influence the body’s signal to produce milk; less frequent or incomplete removal accelerates the drying up process.
Supporting the Drying Up Process
Managing the physical discomfort associated with milk drying up is important. Engorgement can be alleviated by applying cold compresses or chilled cabbage leaves to the breasts. Wearing a supportive, yet not overly tight, bra day and night can also provide comfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation.
If breasts become uncomfortably full, expressing a small amount of milk, just enough to soften the breasts and relieve pressure, can be helpful. It is generally advised to avoid fully emptying the breasts, as this stimulates further milk production. Gradually reducing the frequency and duration of milk removal, such as dropping one feeding or pumping session every few days, allows the body to adjust more gently.
The emotional aspects of stopping lactation should also be acknowledged. The hormonal shifts, particularly the decrease in prolactin and oxytocin, can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, or mood swings. It is beneficial to seek support and engage in other bonding activities with the child. If severe pain, redness, warmth, flu-like symptoms, or a fever occur, these could indicate a blocked duct or mastitis, and medical attention should be sought promptly.