Supportive care for postpartum lactation suppression

Postpartum lactation that is not desired can often be successfully managed without drug therapy. Advise individuals with an established breastfeeding routine to wean gradually. If a more immediate effect is desired, drug therapy can be used.

Supportive care can be used while waiting for lactation to stop, including:

• wearing a firm bra both day and night to support the breasts
• wearing breast pads to soak up any milk leakage
• relieving breast pain with cold compresses (such as gel packs or cold leaves [traditionally cabbage]) or paracetamol or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (see Mild acute nociceptive pain for dosages)
• ensuring adequate fluid intake.