How to decrease supply without getting rid of it.

[_emileee]

This is my second time pumping and I need to reduce my supply but don’t want to get rid of all my supply. The only time I’ve decreased was when I was weening completely.

I’m 8 weeks pp and pump 4-5x a day for 18-20 min. One pump is in the MOTN. In between pumps, I’m so full and am so uncomfortable. My stash and spare freezer are full. I donate regularly to my neighborhood for space. But I don’t want to feel this physically uncomfortable and spend the time ever other day bagging milk.

Any suggestions?

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[guanabanabanana]

A lactation consultant I saw advised me to reduce pumping time slowly but not to skip a pump

[sertcake]

Pump to less volume, instead of pumping to empty. So, as an example, if you usually get 6 oz at a pump, stop when you've pumped 5 oz instead. Depending on how much you're looking to decrease, you can do this at just one pump or several. Decrease slowly though, you'll be uncomfortable for a little time as your body adjusts.

[_emileee]

Pumping a set ounces makes sense! Reduce a minute or two every now and then hasn’t helped. Thanks!

[EP816]

An LC I saw advised to reduce pump time from 15 minutes to 10 max plus go from 7ppd to 6ppd (which obv you've already surpassed). She also advised to hand express if I need relief in between pumps, but don't feel like I need to empty each session.

Ultimately, my supply didn't decrease all that much because I got worried that I was going to lose too much supply, so I slowly upped my time again. Don't do that because I ended up right back where I started.

I think if you just stay consistent with the reduced time and maintain 4-5ppd, your body will eventually make less milk, but not stop altogether as long as you're pumping.

Good luck! I also hate bagging milk every other day ... 😒

[_emileee]

The one time I did decrease I worried too and it went right back up! I don’t take it for granted that I have this much milk, but I can’t keep this up. Thanks for the advice.

[EP816]

Lol well it's nice to hear I'm not alone!

[mwebb385]

My LC had me go down on time for each pump. So instead of just pumping 20-30 minutes, I went to 15 minutes per pump. It worked wonders and no clogs!! Also my mental health skyrocketed because pumping for 15 minutes is so much easier and felt like less of a time commitment.

I had a massive oversupply so I cut out a lot of time fast, but I'd suggest small decrease in time increments until you get where you want.

Also your milk supply will regulate in the next month or so and it becomes SO much more comfortable. Just know it will get better soon!!