I have stopped breastfeeding. How do I deal with the engorment pain? It really hurts!

Question

Just having a bra on is hurting right now, but since I have kids here, not wearing one is not an option. Can I pump just a little or will that just make it worse? Please help me take this pain away!

Answer 1

In addition to weaning slowly you can also put cold cabbage leaves in your bra, wear them until they wilt and apply new ones.  You can take a rolling pin to help flatten the hard spines of the cabbage before putting them on.  It feels good and helps reduce the supply.  A very supportive sports bra also helps.

Answer 2

Did you wean cold turkey?  That is never a good idea. As you've discovered, it results in a LOT of pain/engorgement, and puts you at high risk for mastitis.

Ideally you should put baby back on the breast and wean gradually. (For both your sakes.)  Cut out one feeding at a time, or shorten each feed by a few minutes, or both.  

If this isn't an option (for example, you had to wean abruptly to take an unsafe medication, or baby is refusing the breast), then yes, you want to pump.  Pump regularly at first, and then wean your b*****s from the pump just as gradually as you would wean the baby.  Expect to need around 2 weeks to complete the process.

Answer 3

pump it always, mix with formula if u can or want.  

Answer 4

To reduce pain and swelling, take ibuprofen apply ice or cold compresses, and wear a supportive nursing bra that is not too tight.

To soften your b*****s before feedings, apply heat, massage gently, and use your hands or a pump to let out (express) a small amount of milk from both b*****s.

If you are not breast-feeding, avoid stimulating the nipples or warming the b*****s. Instead, apply cold packs, use medicine for pain and inflammation, and wear a supportive bra that fits well.

Also, I heard cold lettuce cabbage leaves inserted into your bra cups really help with the pain.

Hope that helps!

Answer 5

Cut slowly. Pump twice a day. Then cut it back to once a day. Then eventually stop. If you just stop cold turkey you'll get a breast infection.

Answer 6

I know it sounds funny but go to the store and buy a cabbage (they are cheap so don't worry)  but it in the fridge and get it cold.  Then take off the outer leaves and hold them to your b*****s.  You can also alter between heat packs and cold.  I wouldn't pump though.  

Answer 7

newmom is correct, stop slowly and you should take motrin for the pain.  

Answer 8

Well, I was in the same situation about two weeks ago. And my answer is to wean your breast slowly. You can continue to feed but  cut down to less feedings everyday. This progress lessens the milk production and it will eventually stop. I now am down to 3 feedings but only at night. Try it and see.