Milk Suppression

Have things been harder than you imagined? Or is your journey wrapping up after a few years? No matter the reason, you’ve found yourself looking for information on how to safely stop breastfeeding. We’re happy to support you through this transition. Below are the most effective ways to slowly end your journey without risking infection, engorgement and pain. 

Sudafed - taking one 60mg dose of Sudafed has been known to reduce our supply by 24% in just 24 hours. This is a great place to start. Routinely taking sudafed over the course of a few days should significantly slow milk production.

Ice and heat- These can be alternated as much as tolerated.

Reduce milk removals - It’s rare that we can halt milk removals all together, and it may not be safe for you either. If you think of your supply as a supply and demand production then the more we demand, the more (in theory) we supply. Reducing the demand gradually is the best way to bring things to a stop. Take out several sessions in your regular routine and if necessary try to only pump or hand express to comfort. This will keep engorgement at bay.

Cabbage leaves- directly on your breast is also known to stop further milk production. We recommend washing the leaves, and then wrapping them directly around your breast with leaving the nipple exposed. Once the leaves have wilted throw them away and reapply clean ones. This can be done as much as tolerated.

Pain Meds- Don’t shy away from over the counter pain medications. Ibuprofen and tylenol can be lifesavers while reducing your supply. These can be alternated as needed. Follow package dosing guidelines.

Things to avoid/ Out of date practices

DO NOT bind your breasts with a bra that is too tight or with any sort of ace or wrap bandage.

DO NOT ignore your supply in hopes it will go away, this can lead to milk stasis and infection.

DO NOT empty your breasts fully with your pump as a way to clear your supply.

DO NOT let yourself get engorged and in pain, this should not be a painful experience.

DO NOT try things you see online if the recommended information is not from a Doctor of Women’s Medicine, or a IBCLC.

Have you tried these things and you’re STILL making milk? Reach out to explore a few herbal remedies and more tips on how to slow that flow!