I have a problem!! I just had a miscarriage, and my body is continually producing milk. I need some advice as to how to deal with the pain. My doctor recommends that I just let it dry out, but my entire breast is painful. I'd like to know if there is anything I can do to help it dry out quicker, or to just ease the pain. Also, I notice I have really bad cramps when I get up.

Thank you

I am so so sorry about the loss of your baby! The "continually producing milk" shows you Mother Nature's persistence. Yes, there are things you can do to ease the pain in your breasts. As for the cramps, they are caused by the hormone "oxytocin" which also causes the "letdown" reflex in the breast. As you reduce your supply, you should certainly notice these cramps subsiding too. If not, then you need to get back in touch with your OB.

Ice packs on your breasts (placed over clothing--never on bare skin) for 10-15 minutes every couple hours or so should help. Ice reduces swelling and milk flow. You can even use those large frozen bags of vegetables (peas, corn, etc). They mold well to the shape of the breast and can then be refrozen. Another helpful idea is to place cold cabbage leaves inside your bra. It is still not known how it works, but cabbage reduces swelling. Many women report immediate relief, so it is worth trying. Replace the leaves as they begin to wilt.

Expressing a little milk can also give you relief. (Using a pump, hand expression, warm wet towels, a shower, or submerging the breasts in a basin of warm water and gently expressing) It is a misconception that if you express some milk, you will increase the supply. That is only true when you empty the breast. Anytime just a little milk is expressed, it is a signal to the brain to slow down on the supply. So what you are wanting to do is express just enough to ease the discomfort, and only whenever it begins to hurt again. You do not want to be on any kind of pumping schedule.

One last thought, and only, of course, if this feels right for you--there are milk banks out there looking for milk for sick babies. You would have to have access to a good electric pump, of course, which means some expense on your part, but if this is an idea that appeals to you, I will be happy to put you in touch with a milk bank.

With deepest sympathy, Cher Sealy, RN, BSN, IBCLC, LLLL

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