Stopped Nursing

by Melissa
(New Mexico)

Visitor Question: I have stopped nursing due to several reasons, but I know there is still some breast milk left in my breasts.

I don't feel engorged so I don't want to pump because I don't want more to come in. What happens to the milk left in there? Do I need to pump it out? Will I get clogged ducts and possibly mastitis if I leave it in there?

Breastfeeding Magazine Response: Sudden weaning can lead to mastitis in some women.

However, most moms wean their little ones without incident.

Just pay attention for symptoms of mastitis and see your doctor if you have any problems.

For most moms, the breast milk simply dries up.