Weaning from breastfeeding or pumping isn’t always as simple as “just stopping.” When I started the process, I thought I could be done in a couple of months. When I started the weaning process I was an over-supplier making around 60 ounces a day.
I quickly realized weaning takes time, patience, and a lot of trial and error.
If you’re starting your weaning journey, here’s what to expect, how to do it gradually, and the side effects no one really warns you about.
Why You Should Wean Slowly
The biggest piece of advice I can give: wean slowly if you can.
I actually began cutting back a couple of months before I fully committed to stopping. Even then, I experienced engorgement and discomfort.
Weaning too quickly can increase your risk of:
- Engorgement
- Clogged milk ducts
- Mastitis
- Hormonal side effects
Going slow helps your body adjust naturally and can make the process much more manageable.
My Step-by-Step Weaning Schedule
Here’s what my gradual weaning process looked like:
1. Start by Dropping One Pump Session
The first step was cutting out my afternoon pump—but this didn’t happen overnight. I spent a couple of months slowly reducing how long I pumped before removing it completely.
I was then doing three sessions a day:
- 6:30 AM
- 12:00 PM
- 9:00 PM
2. Shorten Pumping Time Gradually
Instead of stopping suddenly, I reduced the length of each session. For example:
- From 20 minutes → 15 minutes
- Then 10 minutes → shorter as needed
Tip: Pump just until you feel comfortable—not empty.
3. Reduce to Two Sessions a Day
Once I dropped the middle session, I pumped:
- Morning
- Night
At this point I had been actively weaning for about 5 weeks, and my supply had dropped to about 15 ounces per day.
4. Move to One Pump Per Day
Eventually, I reduced to one pump daily, producing around 6 ounces.
From here, I stopped following a strict schedule and only pumped when I felt uncomfortable.
5. Stop Gradually
The final stage looked like:
- Pumping every other day
- Then stopping completely
I tried not to overthink it and let my body guide the process. I knew if I thought about it too much, it would become stressful, and I would get emotional about weaning. I tried to distract myself and just pump when needed.
The Mindset Shift No One Prepares You For
One of the hardest parts of weaning isn’t physical—it’s mental.
For so long, your mindset is:
“Make as much milk as possible.”
Then suddenly, it becomes:
“Only pump enough to feel comfortable.”
That shift takes time, and it’s okay if it feels strange at first.
Unexpected Side Effects of Weaning
I knew there would be hormonal changes, but I wasn’t prepared for how strong—or long-lasting—they would be.
Here are some weaning side effects I experienced:
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Anxiety
Not everyone experiences these symptoms, but if you do, you’re not alone. Hormonal shifts during weaning can affect both your body and your mood.
How I Managed Engorgement and Discomfort
To help with physical symptoms, I used:
- Sunflower lecithin for clogged ducts – I highly suggest the Legendary Milk Softgels
- Ibuprofen for inflammation and pain
- Ice packs for relief – I used the Lansinoh ice packs
These made a big difference, especially in the early stages.
The Emotional Side of Weaning
Weaning isn’t just physical—it’s emotional too.
It’s completely normal to feel a sense of loss. You’re ending a chapter of providing for your baby in a deeply personal way.
Give yourself space to feel that.
Don’t Do It Alone: Build a Support System
Because of the hormonal changes and possible anxiety or mood shifts, having support is so important.
Talk to:
- Your partner
- Friends
- Family
Let them know what you’re going through so they can support you during this transition. Finding a friend that can relate to what you’re going through can help a lot!
Weaning looks different for everyone. There’s no perfect timeline.
Take it slow, listen to your body, and give yourself grace throughout the process.
And no matter how long or how much you pumped or breastfed just know you did an amazing job!
