I'm in agony

[Outnumbered1225]

Stopped breastfeeding DS (5mo) on Friday. I had been gradually reducing breastfeeds/increasing bottles in the run up to this, but stopped altogether on Friday. I'm so engorged and in agony, I don't know what to do. I can't even cuddle my baby. How much longer will this last? I'm struggling.

Are you able to express a little for your own comfort?

If it’s just as bad in the morning, I’d give one of the Bfing Helplines a call too

You need to ask advice from a breastfeeding advisor: sounds like a recipe for mastitis if it’s that sore. Hope you feel better soon.

I had this I spoke to my midwives and they said to hand express enough milk to make me comftable. when I felt full and sore to have a warm bath and put a wet warm towel on the breasts to let them leak naturally to avoid stimulation, if they feel sore u can also use ice packs to bring some relief . They also advised some Savoy cabbage leaves that have been cooled in the fridge or freezer if you want them quicker, once cooled run a rolling pin over them to crush the veins and place them in your bra either until there warm r until they wilt then replace with cool ones. Apparently there is anti inflammatory stuff in that cabbage and they help reduce milk supply.

Hope this helps

Also keep checking to see if you have any hot red patches as that's a sign of blocked milk ducts and could lead to mastitis if it's not sorted out soon