To slow down milk production, the key is to reduce breast stimulation and remove milk less often, but do this gradually to avoid pain, blocked ducts, or mastitis.
First steps
- Gradually space out feeds or pumping sessions (for example, if you pump every 3 hours, move to every 4, then every 5, over several days). The goal is to express just enough to stay comfortable, not to fully empty the breast.
- Shorten the length of each pumping or feeding session so the breast is not completely drained, which signals the body to make less milk.
Comfort measures
- Wear a well-fitting, supportive bra and handle breasts gently to avoid extra stimulation.
- Use cold packs or chilled cabbage leaves on the breasts between feeds to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Things to avoid or change
- Avoid pumping or feeding “to empty” unless you are extremely uncomfortable; instead, express just to soften the breast.
- Stop using lactation-boosting foods and supplements, such as lactation teas or cookies, which can maintain or increase supply.
Medicines and herbs
- Some options that can reduce supply include certain combined hormonal birth control pills, pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), and herbs like sage, peppermint, or parsley, but these should only be used after discussing with a doctor, especially if you are still nursing.
When to get help
- Contact a lactation consultant or healthcare provider if you have a history of mastitis, very high oversupply, severe pain, fever, or hard/red areas on the breast, or if you are unsure how quickly to cut back.
If you tell a bit more (for example: are you weaning completely, just reducing oversupply, and how old your baby is), advice can be tailored more specifically.
