Expert: Sue Ennis - 3/24/2009

Question
Hello! My 4 month old baby has been sleeping through on a regular schedule
for about the last 2 weeks. I used to only be able to stand about 8 hours max
without feeding and now my breasts seem to have adjusted to go about 11
hours (I generally feed him between 8 or 9 and he sleeps until around 7). I
can sleep okay once I get up to the 9 to 10 hour range but it starts to get
really uncomfortable right before he wakes up (which I guess is a good thing
since I know relief is coming soon!). He never drinks enough to fully drain the
breasts so will my breasts eventually not fill up so much?? I've heard it takes a
couple days but it's been 2 weeks or more for me...I am thankful but wish I
could be just a little more comfortable :) Thanks!

Answer
Hello Kelly -Thanks for your question and for many, nature does takes ia little while to correct the supply level in breast milk production process.  You'll need to do a few things to help trigger your body to know it's time to slow 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 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, between feedings you can apply cold compresses to your breast for about 20 minutes.  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.  Be consistent with this process so that your production meets the supply and you should be more comfortable soon enough.  All the best and take good care.