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How can I reduce my breast milk naturally?

Understanding the Need to Reduce Breast Milk Supply
For various reasons, some breastfeeding individuals may seek to reduce their breast milk supply. This could be due to personal choice, medical advice, or the process of weaning. Whatever the motivation, there are several natural methods to consider that can help achieve this goal without resorting to medications.
Natural Methods to Reduce Milk Supply
One effective approach is to gradually decrease breastfeeding sessions. By limiting the frequency of nursing, the body will respond by producing less milk over time. This method is often recommended as it allows for a more comfortable transition for both the parent and the baby, minimizing the risk of engorgement or discomfort.
Another natural remedy involves the use of cabbage leaves. Placing cabbage leaves over the breasts can help reduce swelling and discomfort while signaling the body to decrease milk production. It is suggested to change the leaves every couple of hours or when they wilt. This method has been used traditionally and is considered a gentle way to assist in the drying up process.
Lifestyle Adjustments
In addition to these methods, certain lifestyle changes can also contribute to a reduction in milk supply. Stress management is crucial, as high levels of stress can negatively impact milk production. Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can help lower stress levels and, consequently, milk supply.
Moreover, dietary adjustments can play a role. Some foods are known to potentially decrease milk supply, such as sage and peppermint. Incorporating these herbs into meals or teas may assist in reducing breast milk production naturally.
The Role of Hormones
For those looking for a more immediate effect, hormonal changes can also be leveraged. Estrogen, for instance, has been shown to help reduce milk supply. However, this should only be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as hormonal treatments can have various side effects and implications.
Conclusion
Reducing breast milk supply naturally is a process that requires patience and care. By gradually decreasing nursing sessions, utilizing cabbage leaves, managing stress, and making dietary changes, individuals can effectively navigate this transition. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that the chosen methods align with personal health needs and circumstances.

What foods decrease breast milk?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

  • Carbonated beverages.
  • Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc.
  • Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

What lowers milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

  • Smoking or drinking.
  • Some medicines and herbs.
  • Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
  • Nursing or pumping less often.
  • Getting sick.
  • Feeling stressed.
  • Getting pregnant again.

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.

How can I reduce my breast milk quickly?

Several factors will affect how long it takes for your milk to dry up, including your baby’s age and how much milk your body is making.

  1. 7 ways to dry your breast milk supply quickly.
  2. Cold turkey.
  3. Herbs.
  4. Cabbage.
  5. Birth control.
  6. Sudafed.
  7. Vitamin B.
  8. Other drugs.

How can I stop producing so much breast milk?

Block feeding‘ is a method that can help reduce your milk supply in just a few days. Feed your baby from only one breast at each feed. Space feeds out — at least 2 ½ hours apart.

What happens if I don’t breastfeed for 2 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 can I stop producing a lot of milk?

Take birth control.
Taking estrogen as a part of a combined birth control pill can help stop lactation. Most mothers see a drop in milk production after taking one pill a day for one week.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

  • Smoking or drinking.
  • Some medicines and herbs.
  • Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
  • Nursing or pumping less often.
  • Getting sick.
  • Feeling stressed.
  • Getting pregnant again.

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.

Which foods reduce breast?

The best diet to help reduce breast size is one that actually reduces overall body fat. This means a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and protein (fish and chicken are best). Carbohydrates should be minimized as much as possible, along with fried, fatty, or processed food.

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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