Learning how to stop breastfeeding is already a difficult task. It is even more difficult or at least equally difficult to stop the pain that is caused when breast-feeding. That sounds like an impossible job. But, of course, we can do something about that to make weaning your baby off of breast-feeding as smooth as possible. In this article, you will get tips on how to wean painlessly.
So how do you stop breastfeeding? Just follow the tips below:
- You can either wean gradually or abruptly. The recommended choice by most baby care professionals is a gradual weaning as this is easier for both you and your child. But if you have medical issues or other special reasons for weaning abruptly, you can still do so. Be warned as this choice may be difficult. Compared to gradual weaning, you will be more prone to infection, engorgement, and breast pain if you choose to wean abruptly.
- Start by taking away your baby’s least favorite feeding time. Or you can cut off minutes from your feeding time. You can even stretch the feeding intervals. This way, your milk supply gradually decreases. Breast pain is avoided too.
- Replace breastfeeding with sippy cups, feeding bottles, or small snacks appropriate for your child’s age. It can be baby food or mashed fruits or vegetables.
- If you experience any breast pain, consuming an over-the-counter pain reliever can take away the pain. You can apply a warm compress on the affected area too.
- Pumping out milk will lessen the pain and pressure. Extract the appropriate amount of milk to keep your breasts from being engorged with milk. But don’t empty it either.
- Entertain your baby and keep his or her mind off of breast-feeding by providing alternate activities or by showering your baby with hugs and cuddles.
- Consult your doctor if your breast becomes red or sore, or if your breasts excretes discolored liquid or blood. This may mean that you have mastitis or an infection. Causes of mastitis are improper pumping, incorrect nursing, and a poor-fitted bra. Have your doctor check your breast’s condition to be sure. Your physician can prescribe antibiotics to take away the pain or run more exams to determine the cause of the pain.
Breastfeeding is a happy experience for you and your child. However, this stage is bound to end as your child moves to other phases in his or her life. If you want to wean without the pain, you can apply the tips above on how to stop breastfeeding. One thing to consider is that your decision to wean should be final. Once your milk supply depletes, it may be difficult for you to produce milk again. In addition to that, you should also talk to your doctor. Immediately inform your physician if you feel something off in your breast. This may be a sign of infection or some other disease. Anyhow, you can still keep you and your baby’s bond strong by doing fun thing together. Good luck. I hope that these tips work for you.
Marcy has been an advocate of breastfeeding as it strengthens a baby’s immune system. She also understands the importance of weaning your children off of breast-feeding at the appropriate time and with the appropriate technique. From her posts, you can learn about when to stop breastfeeding and how to wean from breastfeeding.
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