Weaning

Weaning from breastfeeding

Weaning from breastfeeding by definition means to gradually take away, to detach. An optimal way for moms to go about the weaning process is for it to happen gradually and with love. Optimal, but not always possible.

As a lactation consultant, the assumption is that I only help mothers who want to breastfeed their baby. Of course, this is one of the important things I do each and every day. Educate through breastfeeding classes, blogs, and private consults and now with podcasting.

There are circumstances where some moms need to stop their milk production as soon as possible. As a lactation consultant, I also help moms with the weaning process.

I recognize that there are many reasons why some mothers who have been breastfeeding and or pumping want to or need to stop producing milk. Moms need help, not judgement. I will do my best to meet their needs and help them wean in the safest way possible. It is all part of the breastfeeding journey.

Weaning from breastfeeding and weaning from pumping

For some moms, the choice to wean is not an urgent matter and I can help her do this gradually. There are times, however, when a mother needs to stop producing milk abruptly. This is usually because:

She needs long term treatment for a medical problem which is not compatible with breastfeeding. Her only option is to take medication that is not compatible with breastfeeding. A breast abscess for which she needs to dry up that side.

It is important to note that having a breast abscess does not automatically mean you need to wean from that side. In fact, with proper management, most moms can continue breastfeeding. Good thing though, that our breasts are autonomous .

Drying up one breast does not mean you need to dry up the other side. Sudden separation for military deployment or emergency surgery, illness, or an accident. Sadly, her baby has died and after understanding her options, she has decided to wean quickly.

How sudden weaning can affect the mother:

1. Physical changes
2. painful breast engorgement which can lead to plugged ducts and/or a breast infection or abscess.
3. Emotional changes
4. Abrupt changes in hormone levels, specifically oxytocin and prolactin, puts you at risk for emotional difficulties. You may feel deep sadness, have feelings of anxiety and depression. Let your loved ones know these risks. You will want their help and support and compassion during the weaning process.
5. Sudden changes will likely affect her baby. Depending on their age and frequency of nursing, the loss of comfort and security they get with breastfeeding may have quite an impact. The nutritional aspects as well as the change in milk they get may affect their gut health.

Weaning abruptly is serious business therefor I highly recommend that you consult with an IBCLC to help you safely go through this process. While you are waiting to connect with an IBCLC, here are some tips that you might find helpful during this delicate time –

Speak with your physician about taking some over the counter medication to help with pain.

Hand express or pump for comfort. Even if you need to do this on an hourly basis, just take off only as much milk as you need to so your breast can feel more comfortable.

Binding your breasts is old fashioned and dangerous advise. Wearing a very supportive bra, but not too restrictive one will be helpful. Also Sage, parsley and peppermint are herbs that can help to speed up the drying up process.

As I have said, abrupt weaning is serious business which can greatly affect your physical and emotional health. Please seek expert help during the weaning process. Talk to your partner, your family, and your friends. Let them know how you’re feeling and be willing to accept their help.