How long for boobs to return to 'normal'...

[hodgiebreeder]

..... Or whatever 'normal' might be these days?!?

I have recently stopped BF my DS after cutting down the feeds gradually one by one every 4/5 days or so. 'the girls' were last in action 2 weeks ago but still feel very tender and after a little investigation earlier, my milk is still there. I'm not engorged as such but they feel pretty lumpy and hard behind the nipple and aren't excruciating but have that bruised feeling. I would've thought they would've dried up by now, especially as I struggled with supply up until the point of stopping. I'm worried if this goes on too long I might be prone to some sort of infection, although I have no sign of a temperature. My mum suggested epsom salts (got to LOVE those old school remedies?!) and a friend mentioned that doctors could prescribe something? Anyone had any advice or have experienced similar?

It depends on the person and how long you've breastfed for (the longer you breastfeed for the longer for milk to dry up). If you're very uncomfortable you could try to express only a tiny amount to relieve pain. Ibuprofen is recommended as it's not only a pain killer but also has an anti inflammatory action. Also helpful are ice packs or frozen cabbage leaves inside your bra.

I suppose it would depend what you mean by normal......mine have never returned to the same size as they were before DD. In fact they are about 4 cups larger

Thanks guys. I BF for 6.5 months so I guess it's unreasonable for me to expect the milk to disappear overnight...... Kind of thought it would be quicker than 2 weeks though! Cabbage leaves at the ready....

45 days, apparently...
www.bflrc.com/ljs/breastfeeding/trivia.htm