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Can I put cabbage on my breast to stop breastfeeding?

Understanding the Use of Cabbage Leaves in Weaning
The practice of using cabbage leaves as a home remedy to help stop breastfeeding has been a topic of interest for many mothers. This method is rooted in traditional practices, and while it may sound unconventional, it has gained popularity among some breastfeeding mothers seeking a natural way to ease the weaning process.
The Rationale Behind Cabbage Leaves
Cabbage leaves are believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the breasts, the coolness of the leaves can provide relief from discomfort associated with engorgement as the body adjusts to decreased milk production. Many women report that the leaves help reduce swelling and tenderness.
The mechanism behind this remedy is not scientifically backed to a significant extent, but anecdotal evidence suggests that cabbage leaves can be effective in providing some relief. The coolness of the cabbage leaves can also serve as a soothing compress, which may help alleviate discomfort.
How to Use Cabbage Leaves
If a mother chooses to try this method, here are some general steps to follow:
1. Select Fresh Cabbage Leaves: Choose leaves from a fresh green cabbage. Make sure they are clean and free from any chemicals or pesticides.

2. Prepare the Leaves: Some mothers prefer to slightly crush the leaves with a rolling pin to release their juices, which may enhance their soothing properties.
3. Apply to Breasts: Place the cabbage leaves on the breasts, ensuring they cover the areas that feel most engorged or tender.
4. Leave for a While: It is often recommended to leave the leaves on for about 20-30 minutes. They can be reapplied as needed throughout the day.
5. Monitor for Reactions: It’s important to watch for any allergic reactions or skin irritations. If any adverse effects occur, discontinue use immediately.
Considerations and Alternatives
While cabbage leaves can provide temporary relief, it is crucial to approach the weaning process with care. Gradual weaning is often recommended to allow the body to adjust naturally and minimize discomfort.
Consulting a healthcare provider is advisable for personalized advice and guidance, especially for mothers who may experience significant discomfort or complications during the weaning process.
Other alternatives for easing the transition from breastfeeding include:
– Cold Compresses: Using ice packs wrapped in a cloth can help reduce swelling and pain.
– Herbal Remedies: Some herbal teas, like sage or peppermint, may help reduce milk supply.
– Gradual Reduction: Slowly reducing breastfeeding sessions can help the body adjust without significant discomfort.
Conclusion
In summary, while placing cabbage leaves on the breasts is a home remedy some mothers use to ease the weaning process, it is essential to approach this method with caution and awareness. Gradual weaning and consulting with healthcare professionals remain the most effective strategies for a comfortable transition away from breastfeeding.

Is cabergoline over the counter?

Cabergoline use is usually stopped when prolactin levels are normal for 6 months. It may be given again if symptoms of too much prolactin occur again. This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

How to make cabbage compress?

:: Place the cabbage leaves directly over the feet and cover with gauze or saran wrap. :: Elevate your feet and keep the cabbage compress on for up to an hour. You may also apply the leaves at bedtime and keep on overnight. For a cold compress, refrigerate the cabbage before you begin the process above.

What happens if I don’t breastfeed for 3 days?

You may have some milk leak from your breasts, and your breasts may feel sore and swollen. This is called engorgement. It usually gets better after several days. Over time, your body will stop making milk if you don’t breastfeed or pump.

How fast will cabbage dry up breast milk?

Change the leaves about every two hours, sooner if they become wilted or smell like cooked cabbage. Wear the cabbage leaves day and night until your breasts stay soft. This may take 3 to 5 days.

How long does it take for cabergoline to stop breast milk?

For those with established lactation, cabergoline on average required 3.29 days to stop. In Caballero-Gordo et al, where participants who failed an initial dose of cabergoline 1 mg and then received an additional 1 mg dose, symptoms disappeared completely within 48 hrs.

How to stop breast milk supply?

One of the main things a person can do to dry up breast milk is avoid nursing or pumping. The supply of breast milk increases with demand. Avoiding nursing or pumping, even if a person feels uncomfortable, tells the body to produce less milk.

What is the fastest way to dry up breast milk?

Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma. Take Benadryl as directed on the package.

Does putting cabbage on breast work?

Cabbage leaves can help reduce discomfort from inflammation and engorgement, but they can’t treat a serious infection. If you have a fever or if your symptoms continue or worsen, you might need antibiotics.

How to stop breastfeeding quickly?

Suppressing milk supply after weeks or months of breastfeeding

  1. Start by expressing as many times as you had been breastfeeding, or less depending on your own comfort.
  2. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you express each time and/or drop one expression every 3 to 4 days.
  3. When you are ready, simply stop expressing.

How to stop lactation naturally?

To utilize herbs for lactation suppression:

  1. Drink sage tea made with 1 to 3 grams of dried sage leaves.
  2. Appy jasmine flowers to your breasts.
  3. Take chaste berry orally.
  4. Eat parsley.
  5. Use peppermint oil topically only if you’ve completely stopped breastfeeding — it can be toxic to your baby.
Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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