If you've been exclusively pumping breast milk for your baby, you will eventually reach a point where you're ready to stop. This can be a big transition—both physically and emotionally. While it’s a significant milestone, it can also bring mixed feelings and new challenges. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step and offer practical tips to make weaning more comfortable for your body and supportive of your emotional well-being.

Important Reminders

Go Slowly

Weaning is a process that may take some time, especially if you have an abundant milk supply. Be patient with your body and allow your breasts time to adjust. Slow, steady changes can help minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of breast engorgement or plugged ducts.

Avoid Abrupt Weaning Unless Medically Necessary

In some cases, sudden weaning may be required for medical reasons—such as certain health conditions, procedures, or medications that are not compatible with breastfeeding or pumping. However, stopping abruptly can increase the risk of painful engorgement, plugged ducts, or even mastitis. Whenever possible, decrease your pumping sessions gradually to give your body time to adapt and make the transition more comfortable.

How Do You Get Started?

Whether it’s been weeks, months, or longer, you’re ready to step away from the pump and embrace the next stage of your parenting journey. You can begin down-regulating your milk supply using one or more of the methods below. Choose the approach—or combination—that feels most comfortable for you.

Going Longer Between Pumping Sessions

Gradually increase the time between your pumping sessions. For example, if you’ve been pumping every 3 hours, wait a little longer before your next session. Shifting your schedule by 15–30 minutes at a time gently signals your body to start producing less milk.

Reducing Pumping Time

Along with extending the time in between pumping sessions, you can gradually shorten the duration of each session. Try reducing your pumping time in 5-minute increments—for instance, going from 20 minutes to 15 minutes. Over time, this will signal your body to make less milk.  

Using Medications or Herbs to Decrease Supply

Some mothers may choose to use medications or herbal remedies to help reduce milk supply. Always consult your healthcare provider or lactation consultant before starting any medication or herbal remedy to make a fully informed decision that's right for you.

  • Herbal Options: Sage, peppermint, and parsley may help to reduce milk supply.

  • Pseudoephedrine: This over-the-counter decongestant is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and has been shown to significantly reduce breast milk production. However, it is a stimulant medication and may not be appropriate for everyone.

  • Combined Oral Contraceptives: A one-week course of this estrogen containing medication can lead to a noticeable decrease in milk supply.

  • Prescription Medications: In urgent or medically necessary cases, medications like Cabergoline may be prescribed for a more rapid reduction in milk supply. These options are typically reserved for situations where abrupt weaning is needed.

Decreasing Pumping Sessions

As the time between pumping sessions increases, your pumping sessions get shorter, and your milk supply gradually decreases, you can begin reducing the total number of pumping sessions each day. Over the course of a few weeks, you might find yourself down to just one or two sessions per day before being able to comfortably stop pumping altogether.

Listen to your body throughout this process. If you experience discomfort, breast pain, or engorgement, slow your pace or maintain your current schedule a little longer.

Tips for Success

Progress May Take Time

For mothers with a full milk supply, the weaning process may take a few weeks. Progress may feel slow at times, but it’s important to give your body time to adjust. Gradual changes often make weaning more comfortable and reduce the risk of complications.

Your Comfort is Important

As you reduce pumping, breast fullness and discomfort are common. Try these strategies to ease discomfort:

  • Cold Compresses or Ice Packs: Apply to your breasts between pumping sessions to reduce inflammation, relieve soreness, and may help slow the refilling of your breasts. Use for 10–15 minutes at a time as needed.

  • Cabbage Leaves: Chilled cabbage leaves are a frequently recommended remedy for engorgement. Place them inside your bra for 10–20 minutes to relieve pressure and discomfort.

  • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Always follow dosing instructions and check with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

  • Supportive Bra: Wearing a well-fitting, supportive bra can minimize discomfort and help manage engorgement as your supply decreases.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Taking care of yourself during this time is crucial. Ensure you’re eating enough calories, staying well hydrated, and resting when possible. Your body is undergoing significant changes, so giving it the support it needs can make weaning smoother and more comfortable.

Conflicting Emotions:

Weaning can bring up a range of emotions. You might feel relief, sadness, guilt, or even confusion—all of which are normal. Many mothers describe a sense of loss as this chapter of their feeding journey ends. As your hormone levels adjust, some may also experience mood shifts or symptoms similar to the “baby blues.” Paying attention to your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical comfort. Be gentle with yourself, reach out for support when needed, and remember that these feelings often ease with time.

Seek Support

Weaning from pumping can be tough, both physically and emotionally. Working with a Lactation Consultant can provide valuable support and guidance to help you navigate this transition. They can offer tips on reducing supply, managing breast comfort, and handling any challenges you may face along the way.

Finishing your pumping journey is a meaningful milestone. Through your dedication and consistency, you’ve given your baby the best possible start in life—nourishment, comfort, and care that will support them for years to come. Take a moment to honor all that you’ve done, feel proud of your accomplishments, and carry that confidence with you into this next chapter of your parenting journey.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.