Postpartum Support for the Bereaved Mother

Lactation Cessation Tips

Following the delivery, your hormones will signal your body to begin milk production. For the first few days, you will notice a thick, yellowish substance called colostrum, and you are unlikely to experience discomfort. It is usually on the second or third day that your mature milk will come in. At this time, many mothers’ anguish over the fact that there is no baby to feed.

How can you help your body stop the production of milk?

You may be surprised by the sudden engorgement you will feel when your milk comes in and how quickly you may become physically uncomfortable.

When your breasts feel painful from the pressure of the milk, there are a number of things you can do:

• Wear a comfortable but supportive bra that does not restrict your circulation.

• Sage and Gotu Kola are vitamins that are believed to reduce milk production. These supplements can be purchased in a health food store.

• Cabo Cream is a cream recommended by lactation consultants to suppress milk reduction. This can be ordered online via Amazon.

• Alternatively, a traditional remedy for engorgement is to place cabbage leaves inside your bra to slow milk production. Wash cold, raw, green cabbage leaves and crush the leaf veins to release the enzymes. Replace the leaves about every 2 hours or as they wilt.

• When needed, stand in a hot shower and let the water run over your breasts. This can stimulate some milk release and help you feel less full.

• When in pain, express just enough milk, by hand or with a breast pump, to make yourself feel more comfortable, but no more because this can stimulate more production.

• Apply ice packs for 5-15 minutes at a time to your breasts to reduce swelling and pain.

• Take a pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Please be on the lookout for blocked ducts. Blocked ducts will appear as tender and painful lumps in your breast. This can also cause a breast infection which would manifest itself in a tender, reddened area and would be accompanied by a fever or chills. Should either of these conditions present, contact your doctor, midwife, or a lactation consultant for further assistance.

During this time, you may find that your emotional pain is aggravated by the physical pain of this process. We encourage you to be very gentle with yourself and to follow the steps that bring you not just the most physical comfort, but also emotional comfort. Take the time that you need to allow this process to happen at a rate that feels comfortable for you. Allow yourself the space, comfort and care you so desperately need now. Take it one day at a time; you will heal.

Most importantly, feel free to call us at any time for assistance at 718.925.2113. Or in emergency please call directly to 917.627.5528.

Wishing you a speedy recovery.

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