How to Stop Breastfeeding (and Keep Baby Happy)
Whether you’re planning to wean gradually or right away, we have the expert strategies you need for a smooth transition.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusively breastfeeding until baby is about 6 months old, and then gradually adding solid foods while continuing to breastfeed through their first year of life.
While breastfeeding for a full year (or as long as possible) may be the ideal, it’s not always realistic. You have to evaluate your own sets of wants and needs. There’s no definitive right or wrong answer.
Weaning
Weaning is a process that happens best over the course of several weeks. Of course, if you need to stop breastfeeding immediately, there are ways to reduce possible issues, such as engorgement. Done right, weaning can be a pain-free experience, physically and emotionally, for you and baby.
How to Stop Breastfeeding Gradually
The best way to wean your baby without discomfort is to do it gradually. As you begin the process, be prepared for your body to have some physical reactions to the change. Every mother responds differently to the reduced frequency of feedings.
Gradually transitioning from breastfeeding in a steady, controlled manner can help prevent engorged breasts and lower the risk of clogged milk ducts or mastitis, a breast infection involving the milk ducts.
- Start the weaning process by cutting your child’s least favorite feeding—and keep in mind that the first feeding of the day and the last one before bedtime will probably be the last to go.
- When weaning, it also helps to distract your child during their typical feeding time.
- Remember that breastfeeding is more than just nourishment for your baby; it’s also a source of comfort and bonding. As weaning begins, your baby may miss that closeness, so consider setting aside extra cuddle time to help them adjust.
- Feed baby something else during their usual nursing time
- Besides cutting back on a feeding every three days or so, you can also shave a few minutes off of each feeding.
Weaning Strategies'
Avoid Breast Stimulation: Limit activities like pumping or expressing milk. If necessary, only pump until you’re comfortable when you feel breast engorgement from skipped feedings (rather than emptying the breast). Emptying your breasts will only encourage your body to continue producing more milk and hinder your weaning efforts.
- express just enough to relieve discomfort.
- Cold Compresses: Apply cold packs or chilled cabbage leaves to your breasts to reduce swelling and slow milk production.
Wear a Supportive Bra
- Wear a well-fitting, supportive bra to minimize breast movement and discomfort. Avoid tight bras, as they can lead to clogged ducts.
Use Medications (If Necessary)
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Apply Cold Therapy
- Use ice packs or cool gel pads for 15–20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and soothe pain.
Drink Sage or Peppermint Tea
- Both sage and peppermint have natural properties that may help reduce milk supply. Sip these teas as needed but consult your doctor if you’re breastfeeding intermittently.
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Balanced Diet
- Drink enough water, but avoid overhydration, which can sometimes stimulate milk production.
Avoid Nipple Stimulation
- Minimize touching or stimulating your nipples.
- Position yourself in the shower so the water doesn’t hit your breasts directly.
How Long Does It Take for Milk to Dry Up?
Your milk production operates on a “supply and demand” basis As you demand less milk, your body will respond and make less milk.
The milk production should dry up within 7 to 10 days once a mom completely stops breastfeeding, though you may still notice a few drops of milk for weeks or even months beyond when you stop breastfeeding.
How to Stop Breastfeeding Immediately
It’s not ideal to stop breastfeeding abruptly, since weaning quickly can lead to greater discomfort. Potential complications can include engorgement, plugged ducts or mastitis. But if a gradual approach to weaning isn’t a possibility, there are some tips for how to stop breastfeeding cold turkey, and how to relieve engorged breasts when stopping breastfeeding suddenly.
Drain your breast completely.
Compressing the breast tissue can help reduce milk production by limiting space for milk to fill. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Wear a Tight, Supportive Bra: Choose a snug but not overly tight bra to gently compress the breasts and restrict milk flow. Avoid underwire bras, which can increase the risk of clogged ducts.
- Use Elastic Bandages (if Necessary): Gently wrap the breasts with elastic bandages to apply uniform pressure. Ensure the wrapping is firm but not so tight that it causes pain or restricts circulation.Compress the breast tissue so there is no room for milk fill up.
Avoid Heat
- Steer clear of warm compresses or heat, as it can stimulate milk production.
- Avoid letting hot water directly hit your breasts in the shower.
Use Cold Packs for Pain Relief
- Apply cold packs or chilled cabbage leaves to your breasts for 15–20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
Avoid Nipple Stimulation
- Minimize touching or stimulating your nipples.
- Position yourself in the shower so the water doesn’t hit your breasts directly.
Follow these strategies without interruption for 5–7 days. This consistency will signal your body to stop producing milk.
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