I think I'm *thisclose* to mastitis!

[ps4624]

Yesterday afternoon was the last time my 2 year old nursed.  We've been gradually cutting back nursing sessions for a few weeks.  We've talked about it in detail, and while she's not thrilled, she's doing *so* much better than I expected. 

The problem is that my breasts are in agony - they are hot to the touch, rock hard and throbbing.  I've had cabbage compresses on all day and I'm drinking Earth Mama Angel Baby "No More Milk" tea.  I'm avoiding bread, beer and oatmeal.

I'm scared to express to alleviate the pressure because I don't want to encourage more milk production, but I am really, really uncomfortable.  Does anyone have any suggestions to help?

TIA!

[mtbmomma]

Not much advice, except to say I am in the same place right now.  I would recommend expressing just a bit to relieve the pain and pressure.  From what I have read, this will not prevent your milk from drying up, but it may prevent you from getting Mastitis.  I know some people who would pump after, and supply that milk to their toddler, then gradually decrease the pumping until they didn't need it anymore.  I think with CLW children usually gradually decrease to nursing every few days, then maybe once a week, then once a month.  For those of us who choose MLW I think there isn't really a step between once a day and never, but there needs to be.  

I'm not sure how long it has been for you, but we are on day 3 here, and my breasts were very tender the second day (I expressed a bit in the shower that morning), but today they felt much better.  Good luck.

[gingerandpickles]

I would definitely hand express some. Even if your toddler understands cold turkey, your breast need more gradually weaning to get the idea :)

[justjess]

Yes, I would definitely pump or hand express if you get to the point that you cannot take it anymore. I've had mastitis more than once while pumping. I think I'd go gradually anything else is just torture. Heat compresses really work use them just before you pump & then cold compresses when you are not going to pump. I've also found that if you wear the super tight bra after you have completely emptied both breasts almost like binding the breast I produce less milk and can go hours between pumping. The binding can lead to mastiitis too so be careful.