Lumpy breasts after weaning

by Lauren
(San Diego, CA)

Hi,
I weaned my 18 month old about 6 days ago and I still have lumpy hard areas in my breasts. I don't want to develop an infection so I wanted to see you have any advice on what I can do. I had only been nursing once a day for over a month, so I thought I'd weaned gradually enough that I wouldn't encounter any problems. I used cabbage leaves for the first 2 days and have been trying to massage the lumps out. I end up automatically expressing milk whenever I massage them. How long do breasts usually stay somewhat engorged? Thanks for any advice you have.
Answer from the lactation consultant
Though you weaned gradually, extended breastfeeding really programs our bodies to keep producing. It will take some time. Go back to the cabbage leaves, use them one leaf after another all day long and all night long for 2-3 more days. Also, you can take a benedryl or tylenol pm tonight before bed. It will make you drowsy, so only do this if there is another adult in the house. The antihistamine will dry up your supply. You can do this every night until the lumps are gone. Stop massaging, just use warm compresses. The massaging is stimulating your body to make milk. If you do develop any signs of infection, contact your ob immediately to get on antibiotics. It will take months for your supply to completely go away but these tips should get you over the lumpiness within 2-3 days.
Liz Pevytoe, RN, IBCLC