I had an unusual experience this weekend at the hosptial where I do lactation "rounds" occasionally.  Out of the eight patients, only one was breastfeeding (how unusual, it's usually all breastfeeders!) and she was doing great.  

One mom had a stillbirth, so I strolled in to help with breast care.  Then I decided to go "help" the bottle feeders .  I found that I was rusty on my "how to dry up your milk" speech, which I had to give to all the other mothers after finding that they were dedicated bottle feeders.   The nurse on the floor was telling the moms to go find a tight fitting bra, a version of the old "bind your breasts" theory.  

So, the question:  What do you tell mothers who are weaning at birth?
Here are some options:
*  Ice packs (Marie Biancuzzo)
*  decreased stimulation (Marie Biancuzzo)
*  watch for signs of plugged ducts, milk fever (Lawrence) & mastitis (Aurebach/ Riordan)
*  relieve fullness by breast pump/ warm shower (Aurebach/Riordan)
 (Lawrence)
*  put the baby to breast to relieve fullness (my secret plan to convert)
*  cabbage leaves
*  wear a supportive bra  (not a binding bra)

What would you say/ add?

Terriann Shell, IBCLC
Big Lake, Alaska

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