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How do I slow down my breast milk production?

Understanding Breast Milk Production
Breast milk production is a complex process governed by the principles of supply and demand. The more frequently milk is removed from the breasts—whether through breastfeeding or pumping—the more milk the body produces. Conversely, if the demand decreases, so does the supply. This natural regulation allows mothers to adjust their milk production based on their baby’s needs.
Reasons for Slowing Down Milk Production
There are various reasons a mother might want to slow down her breast milk production. These can include personal choice, medical advice, or lifestyle changes. Understanding how to effectively manage this process is crucial for both comfort and health.
Methods to Decrease Milk Supply
1. Gradual Reduction of Feeding or Pumping: One of the most effective ways to decrease milk production is to gradually reduce the frequency of breastfeeding or pumping sessions. By spacing out feedings and slowly dropping sessions, the body will respond by producing less milk. This method helps to avoid discomfort associated with sudden changes, such as engorgement.
2. Use of Hormonal Birth Control: Taking hormonal birth control, particularly those containing estrogen, can significantly impact milk production. Many mothers report a noticeable decrease in milk supply after just a week of taking a combined birth control pill. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication for this purpose.
3. Physical Techniques: Some mothers have found that binding or tightly wrapping the breasts can help reduce milk production. While this method is less commonly recommended today due to potential discomfort, it has been used historically. Additionally, placing cabbage leaves over the breasts has been a traditional remedy, with mothers changing the leaves every few hours to help alleviate milk production.
4. Managing Stress and Hydration: Stress and dehydration can also play a role in milk supply. Ensuring adequate hydration and finding ways to relax can help manage overall milk production. Techniques such as skin-to-skin contact with the baby and gentle breast massage can promote relaxation, which may inadvertently help in managing milk supply.
5. Avoiding Stimulation: Reducing stimulation to the breasts is crucial. This means avoiding activities that encourage milk letdown, such as frequent breastfeeding or pumping. The less milk is removed, the less the body will produce.
Conclusion
Slowing down breast milk production is a manageable process that requires a thoughtful approach. By gradually reducing feeding sessions, considering hormonal options, and employing physical techniques, mothers can effectively control their milk supply. It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to breastfeeding practices, ensuring that both mother and baby remain healthy and comfortable throughout the transition.

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.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for breast milk?

The ‘Rule of Three’ guideline suggests allowing the baby to nurse for at least three minutes on each breast to ensure they receive a balance of foremilk (initial, thirst-quenching milk) and hindmilk (higher-fat, calorie-rich milk).

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

What reduces the flow of breast milk?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

What causes excessive breast milk production?

Excessive breast stimulation, medicine side effects or conditions of the pituitary gland all may contribute to galactorrhea. Often, galactorrhea results from increased levels of prolactin, the hormone that stimulates milk production. Sometimes, the cause of galactorrhea can’t be determined.

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.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

How can I stop breast milk naturally?

Methods for Drying Up Breast Milk

  1. Wear a supportive bra.
  2. Discontinue breastfeeding.
  3. Use ice packs to manage inflammation. Featured.
  4. Occasionally express milk to relieve breast engorgement.

What causes excessive pumping?

Breastmilk oversupply happens for different reasons. Sometimes, there’s no specific cause — your body may simply produce large amounts of milk, especially at first. This usually gets better if you only nurse or pump to meet your infant’s needs. Pumping more than your infant needs can cause breast milk oversupply.

How do I dry up breast milk asap?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

  1. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen.
  2. Put cold packs on your breasts.
  3. Use cold cabbage leaves (wash fresh cabbage and refrigerate; pull off one leaf at a time and lay them over your breasts; keep the leaves on your skin until they get soft).
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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