AboutSue Ennis Expertise I am looking to support the segment of mothers that encounter engorgement issues that prevent them from continuing to breastfeeding, those that do not breastfeed or are ready to start weaning. As an aside, I wish to add that questions asked in terms of those not breastfeeding will not be given guilt for their choice. In many forums, including this one, there is currently no category developed for this "not breastfeeding" audience. I do believe that breastfeeding is best for both mother and child, however, I believe more strongly that there is a lack of support for the woman that for either personal or medical reasons cannot breastfeed.
My strengths would be in answering questions related to stopping breast milk production comfortably either right after delivery or after nursing their children for some time, reducing breast engorgement pain and dealing with overactive lactation. Questions I would not try to answer are those tied to emotional feelings as I feel many times women that don't/can't breastfeed struggle with it...and that should be directed to the appropriate counseling channel.
Experience I am the inventor and founder of LaMa Bra and for years have researched the human body functions, both in process and emotions/hormones to develop a bra to help mother slow or stop their breast milk.
Education/Credentials I hold a BS in General Biology, a MS in Human Nutrition and an MBA in Marketing.
Also, am the the founder of LaMa Bra found at http://www.lamabra.com that has helped many women with engorgement while breastfeeding and through stages of weaning when ready to stop breastfeeding.
Expert: Sue Ennis Date: 7/1/2008 Subject: stoping breastmilk
Question I see all the suggestions given which is great but i don't see the time limit. So my questions is how long does all this take, for it to stop? If I do the cabbage leaf, or the ace bandage, would it take a day or a week or a month?
Answer Hello Tamara - the time varies greatly woman to woman - typically a week of solid treatment of cold compresses and appropriate pressure does it for some...other need to continue the process up to a month or more. You need to watch the reaction of your body in terms of continuing the routine until your production ceases. Many times women stop the process before they are done and that actually triggers the body to produce milk again. Remember friction, warm water, loose fitting undergarments can all stimulate your production. I caution you to use an ace bandage as that binding is too much pressure. There's the LaMa Bra at http://www.lamabra.com that offers the appropriate pressure and hold form fitting gel paks inside the cup pockets for this purpose. Keep in mind, you need appropriate tight pressure to restrict movement, but binding is causing clogged ducts and mastitis issues. I am sorry there is not a clear cut answer to how long it will take, but I always advise to go a day or two longer than you think you need to, to be safe. For women that are weaning, disregard as you may choose to slow your milk production over many months while you remain breastfeeding and your time line differs. All the best.
