Quitting pumping

michelle1231

I have EP since my baby was 3 months old, he is almost one now. I was down to pumping once a day and only producing a few ounces. I quit completely a week ago with mild discomfort, little engorgement. Today I woke up with rock hard breasts and leaking, like all the time. Is it okay to hand compress some of the milk out or should I just leave it? My breasts feel like I have ping pong balls in there, sorry if that's tmi, but I'm worried about getting mastitis. I do cold compress a couple times a day, no bras with underwires, so is there anything else I can try??

mommatotwo2

I think just like with the early engorgement days it would be fine to hand express to comfort. I'd look into weaning/drying up measures. Some that I've heard around here are peppermint, sage, Sudafed, and cabbage leaves. I'd check out kellymom and possibly give your OB/GYN a call for ideas. Definitely don't pump, or you will signal further milk production.

michelle1231

Thank you ladies for the advice!! I will look into some of the natural remedies suggested first to see if that helps!! Thanks again!!