Weaning (12 months) and breast pain?

Question

I thought my duaghter was weaning herself at 12 months because she nursed very briefly and was getting frustrated. I had been gradually cutting down and was down to once a day. I stopped about 3 days ago and my b*****s hurt and I am worried about getting mastitis. I have cold packs on right now... any other advice? Thanks!

Answer 1

i went through the same thing weaning my 13 month old. after about a week your b*****s will not be as swollen. i remember my b*****s hurting like crazy on the 3rd day but by the 4 and 5 day they were deflating and going back to "normal". just every now and then when inthe shower express some of the milk out to help releive the pain. good luck and keep doing what your doing

Answer 2

You want to drain enough milk for relief but not enough so that you continue milk production.  Get cabbage leaves, yes, sounds weird, but they contain properties that slow down and in some cases shut down milk production.  Get the greenest leaves you can find.  Wash them and place them in your bra.  When they wilt, apply new ones.  Cold compresses are good to reduce the swelling, but warm compresses help with pain, so you may want to alternate.  Take some ibuprofene (if not allergic) to help reduce the pain and swelling.  

Good luck and congratulations on providing your daughter with great nutrition and wonderful bonding time!

Answer 3

Use an ace bandage and strap them tightly until they go down.  As far as mastitis, I had that and you would know it if you have it.  You get redness and severe pain and a high fever.