lactation · miscarriage ·Apr 11, 2025

Stopping Lactation After a Loss

For this blog, we've partnered with Ashley Shapiro to provide support when the unimaginable happens.

Losing a baby is a profoundly painful experience and managing lactation during this time can feel overwhelming. This guide provides practical steps to help you navigate this process.

Why does Milk Production Continue?

After pregnancy, your body produces milk whether or not your baby is nursing. Lactation is a natural process, but there are ways to safely and comfortably reduce milk supply.

Steps to Stop Lactation:

1. Avoid Breast Stimulation

Refrain from expressing milk unless necessary for comfort
If your breasts feel full or painful, hand express or pump just a few minutes to relieve discomfort, but not long enough to empty the breast fully

2. Cold Compresses

Apply cold packs or chilled cabbage leaves to your breasts to reduce swelling and discomfort. Replace cabbage leaves every 2-3 hours

3. Wear a Supportive Bra

Use a snug, supportive bra to minimize movement and reduce stimulation. Avoid overly tight bras as they can cause clogged ducts or mastitis

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Arnica, Nature Profen, or Ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation. Always follow the recommended dosage

Herbs to Reduce Milk Supply plant 🌿

1. Sage

Contains natural compounds that reduce milk production
Prepare as tea: steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried sage in hot water for 10 minutes. Drink 2-3 cups daily
Sage tinctures (15-25 drops) can also be taken 2-3 times daily

2. Peppermint

Menthol in peppermint has been shown to decrease milk supply.
Enjoy as a tea or use peppermint oil (diluted) in aromatherapy.

3. Parsley

Known to reduce milk production when consumed regularly
Add fresh parsley to salads, smoothies, or steep in hot water for tea

4. Jasmine Flowers

The aroma and topical application of jasmine flowers may help suppress milk
Apply jasmine flower oil directly to the breasts or use in a diffuser for aromatherapy

5. Chasteberry (Vitex)

Regulates prolactin levels, which are essential for milk production.
Consult a healthcare provider before using as it may interact with other medications.

Homeopathic Options for reducing milk production

Pulsatilla: Often recommended for emotional healing and reducing lactation.
Phytolacca: May help reduce engorgement and milk supply.

Always consult a qualified homeopath or healthcare provider before starting homeopathic remedies.

Diet Adjustments for reducing milk production

Limit excessive water consumption to prevent stimulating milk production
Avoid Lactogenic Foods
Reduce intake of foods known to boost lactation

Signs to Watch For

While stopping lactation, watch for signs of complications:

Engorgement: Swelling and fullness that doesn’t improve with time.
Clogged Ducts: Hard, tender spots in the breast
Mastitis: Redness, fever, or flu-like symptoms. Seek medical attention if you suspect mastitis

Caring for Yourself Emotionally

Allow Space for Grief: Losing a baby is heartbreaking. Give yourself permission to feel your emotions fully
Seek Support: Talk to loved ones, a counselor, or a support group. Organizations like Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep
Honor Your Baby: Find ways to remember your baby, such as journaling, creating a keepsake, or holding a memorial

When to Seek Help

Reach out to a lactation consultant if you experience:

Severe pain or signs of infection
Prolonged emotional distress

Need a lactation consultant? Ashley Shapiro offers virtual appointments around the world ♥

You Are Not Alone

Navigating lactation after loss is difficult, but you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out for support whenever you need it.

Written with love by:

Ashley Shapiro, Lactation Consultant

*Disclaimer: This is not individualized medical advice, please reach out to your health care provider for medical advice.