Stopping BF and Pumping... Need advice

I have to go back to work, and frankly, I know it is the best for her, and good for me too, but I am just done... I cant do it anymore... I was pumping and feeding, and it just takes too much work and too much time. I am ready to give it up, but I feel guilty at the same time... I just think that a formula fed baby is just as healthy, and will make me happier in the long run.... (she is almost 6 weeks...)

MY question is.. how do I get my milk to stop coming in? How do I "dry up"? I know I am being a bit selfish here but I kinda want my body to myself again...

Message edited 5/16/2009 7:05:17 PM.

Re: Stopping BF and Pumping... Need advice

bump... any suggestions?!?!

Re: Stopping BF and Pumping... Need advice

I went from pumping about 22 oz per day to nothing. It was very uncomfortable so for a few days I manually pumped about 4-6 oz, then a day of only 2 oz, then nothing. This was the end of April and I still have milk. But my boobs have deflated significantly.

Check out kellymoms. I think that's the bf'ing website.

Re: Stopping BF and Pumping... Need advice

I stopped cold turkey.. I did pump for a couple of days just to relieve the pressure, but only once per day and then I was fine. It's been about a month now that I stopped, and I still have milk, but I'm sure it's not alot, but I never feel engorged or leak.

Re: Stopping BF and Pumping... Need advice

Some things to help dry you up:

Sudafed
Cabbage leaves

There is no need to go through the agony of engorgement (which occurs when women just *stop* nursing/pumping). From now on, when you pump, just pump enough to keep yourself comfortable. You should always feel full, but not in pain. Over time your supply will lessen and finally dry up.

Re: Stopping BF and Pumping... Need advice

Ok.. thanks for the advice so far!!! Do I need to wear sports bras and use ice like I have read? I actually looked for cabbage and couldnt find any!!!!

Re: Stopping BF and Pumping... Need advice

i havent tried it- but there is a product-

Earth Mama Angel Baby No More Milk Tea

Re: Stopping BF and Pumping... Need advice

I gradually decreased my pumping sessions and within about a week, I was done, with very little discomfort. I was pumping 4-5 times a day, so I stretched that to just 3 times a day, then 2, then a few days at just one session.