Postpartum Breast Care When You Don't Plan to Breastfeed: Care Instructions
Overview
Your breasts will start to make milk in the first couple of days after you give birth. This happens even if you don't breastfeed. You may have some milk leak from your breasts, and your breasts may feel sore and swollen. This is called engorgement. It usually gets better after several days.
Over time, your body will stop making milk if you don't breastfeed or pump. This can take up to several weeks.
You can take steps at home to decrease your discomfort and help your breasts stop making milk.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Don't pump or remove milk from your breasts by hand.
- Wear a bra that fits well and provides good support. You may find that it helps to wear a bra even while you sleep.
- Apply a cold pack to your breasts for 15 minutes at a time every hour as needed. You can use a frozen wet towel, a cold pack, or a bag of frozen vegetables. To prevent damage to your skin, put a thin cloth between the cold pack and your skin.
- Take ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) to reduce pain and swelling. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor , midwife, or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have symptoms of a breast infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around a breast.
- Red streaks leading from your breast.
- Pus draining from your breast.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor , midwife, or nurse advice line if:
- You do not get better as expected.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter B385 in the search box to learn more about "Postpartum Breast Care When You Don't Plan to Breastfeed: Care Instructions".
Current as of: July 10, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
