Expert: ruth kraft - 12/6/2009

Question
I stopped breastfeeding about 24hrs ago after trying for 2wks.  I never got more than 3ozs and my newborn was constantly feeding.  Also it was very painful when he did latch on and when I tried pumping.   My son seems to be taking the change alot better than I am.  My breasts are swollen, lumpy, and KILLING me.  I am trying cabbage leaves right now, I've been reading forums on the subject all day and have found so much conflicting info.  Do I pump and back off slowly or not pump at all.  Binding them caused more pain so I'm wearing a snug sportsbra instead.  I also have implants and am concerned that it increases my risk of clogged ducts.  Also I read that oral contraceptives decrease milk production because of the estrogen, so would OTC soy extrogen supplements help.  Any advice would be grealy appreciated and may save my breasts from exploding....help.


Answer
Well, it seems you have alot more milk than you thought ;) 3 ounces for a newborn is PLENTY!  If you are still willing to nurse, I would suggest seeing a lactation consultant or a la leache league leader to fix the soreness issue, as you and your baby will be much better off if you keep nursing. and you are actually doing great.

I don't know much about the OTC suppliments. Go to www.safefetus.com and check it out there.

I strongly urge you to keep nursing,You are off to a much better start than most people,  but if you insist, you can also drink sage tea and that often will desrease supply. and keep up the cabbage as well. Just remember, that once you decrease that supply, if your baby starts having allergies to the formula, its extrememly hard to get to nursing again.