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Breastfeeding/weaning and pain
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Question
I have just weaned my son after 10 months of breastfeeding. I slowly cut out feedings until I was pumping once in the morning, and feeding him in the evening. I stopped pumping and feeding him 6 days ago, and my breasts are still engorged. They are large, hard and sore. The soreness has gotten a little bit better, but they are tender in spots, and I am still leaking. Is it normal for them to be sore for this long? I'm kinda scared about clogged ducts and mastitis, but I really want to dry up! Thanks!
HI Lori -this is quite common. And sometimes nature takes it's time to cease the breast milk production process. You'll need to do a few things to help trigger your body to know it's time to stop the process. Two key things are to restrict movement/friction on the breasts. Do not bind them, but do where a tight yet comfortable bra or sports bra consistently day and night. And when showering do not have the warm water hit your breasts...movement, warmth and friction from clothes or loose bras can stimulate the production process. Also, you should apply cold compresses to your breast for about 20 minutes each time about 4 times a day. This will help to decrease any inflammation and aid in constricting the membranes that produce milk. There's a bra on the market that offers both the appropriate pressure and has gel packs that you can chill and place into pockets within the bra...visit http://www.lamabra.com if that's easier for you. All the best!
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Answers by Expert:
Sue 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.
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