How to wean off pumping: A step-by-step guide for a smoother transition

Whether you’ve been exclusively pumping or mixing it with nursing, weaning from the pump is a huge milestone and not just for your body, but your heart too. Maybe you’re going back to work, your baby is eating solids, or you simply feel ready to reclaim a little more of your time. No matter the reason, you deserve a plan that’s gentle, informed, and supportive.

In this guide, we’re walking you through how to wean off pumping step-by-step, so your transition feels as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’ll also talk about how long it takes, the best ways to wean off pumping, and how to avoid things like clogged milk ducts along the way.  This blog is also backed with expert insights from Nicole Peluso, IBCLC, Manager of Lactation Services and Perinatal Education at Aeroflow Breastpumps.

What does “drying up milk” actually mean?

When people talk about “drying up” breast milk, they’re referring to the body naturally winding down milk production. This starts when milk isn’t removed regularly through nursing or pumping. Without that stimulation, levels of prolactin and oxytocin drop, and a protein in the breast (called the  Feedback Inhibitor of Lactation) signals the milk-making cells to slow down.

Over time, the body reabsorbs the leftover milk, and the milk-producing cells shrink or shut down. This process can take days, weeks, or even months, everyone’s experience is different, but it’s all guided by a quiet hormonal shift happening behind the scenes.

When do people usually decide to stop pumping?

There’s no one “right” time. Some parents wean at six months, others closer to a year, and some sooner or later than that. The truth? Weaning is personal, and the timing depends on your baby, your body, your goals, and your life.

According to Nicolo Peluso, “There are both physical and emotional signs that you might be weaning too quickly.”.

When it comes to physical signs, Nicolo suggests keeping an eye out for sore spots, red patches, or chills; these could be signs of clogged ducts or even mastitis.

For emotional signs, Nicolo suggests that it’s not unusual to feel tearful, off balance, or even caught off guard by a sense of grief.“Some feel disconnected, even when they were ready to stop,” she says, “You can always pause the process, or reintroduce a session, this isn’t all-or-nothing. We talk through these emotional shifts in our LC-led virtual classes, too, especially for moms who didn’t expect weaning to feel so big.

You might feel ready when:

• You’ve met your feeding goals
  
• Pumping feels emotionally or physically draining
  
• Your supply is naturally decreasing
  
• Your baby is eating more solids and drinking less milk
  

Whatever your reason, you don’t need to justify it. You’re doing what’s best for your family.

How to dry up breast milk without getting mastitis

Drying up your milk supply slowly and gently is the best way to avoid painful issues like mastitis. Start by gradually spacing out nursing or pumping sessions, don’t stop cold turkey, as that can lead to clogged ducts. Wear a supportive (but not tight) bra, use cold compresses for comfort, and try herbs like sage or peppermint if recommended by your provider. If your breasts feel overly full, express just enough milk to relieve pressure, but avoid fully emptying, which signals your body to keep making more.

Watch for signs of mastitis like redness, swelling, fever, or flu-like symptoms and check in with your healthcare provider if anything feels off.

How long does it take to wean off pumping?

Nicole Peluso says, most people need about 2 to 4 weeks to wean, but some may need more time, and that’s completely okay. “The key is to follow your body’s lead,” she shares.

Things like how often you pump, how much milk you produce, your stress levels, and how ready you feel emotionally can all affect how long the process takes.

This is one of the most searched questions by parents: How long does it take to wean off pumping? And honestly? It varies.

For most people, weaning off pumping takes anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks. If you’re pumping many times a day or producing a lot of milk, you’ll likely need to go more slowly. The most important thing is to give your body enough time to adjust, rushing the process can increase your risk of clogged milk ducts or mastitis.

5 tips to wean off pumping (gently and gradually)

Weaning is all about going slowly and listening to your body. Here are the best ways to wean off pumping without pain or complications:

1. Drop one pumping session at a time

Start with the session you’re least emotionally or physically attached to, usually an afternoon or mid-morning one. Drop that session, then wait 3–5 days before eliminating another. This gives your body a chance to adjust milk production naturally.

2. Increase the time between sessions

If you pump every 3 hours, begin stretching it to 4, then 5, and so on. The gradual space signals your body to produce less milk, helping avoid uncomfortable fullness or clogged milk ducts.

3. Shorten the duration of each session

Instead of pumping for 20 minutes, reduce to 15, then 10. Eventually, your body will start making less milk because it’s no longer being fully emptied each time.

4. Lower the suction settings

Dialing down the suction strength helps reduce stimulation and milk output, another subtle way to tell your body that production can wind down.

5. Hand express only when needed

If your breasts feel overly full or uncomfortable, express just enough milk to relieve pressure. Try not to fully empty your breasts, as this could signal your body to keep up supply.

How to prevent clogged milk ducts during weaning

One of the trickier parts of weaning is avoiding clogged milk ducts, those pesky, painful lumps that form when milk gets trapped.

Here’s how to steer clear of them:

• Massage your breasts gently in the shower or while pumping
  
• Use warm compresses before expressing
  
• Apply cold packs afterward to reduce inflammation
  
• Avoid tight bras or restrictive clothing
  
• Don’t skip steps, wean slowly
  

And if you do notice a tender lump or swelling? Address it early. Left untreated, a clogged milk duct can lead to mastitis, which often requires antibiotics.

Can I take anything to dry up milk faster?

Some parents turn to herbal remedies during weaning, like sage tea, peppermint, or even vitamin B6, all of which are believed to help reduce milk supply. Another time-tested trick? Chilled cabbage leaves tucked into your bra (yes, really).

Always consult your healthcare provider before using herbs or supplements, especially if you’re nursing occasionally or have underlying health conditions.

What are the emotional side effects of weaning?

Many parents are surprised by the emotional waves that come with weaning. Lower levels of prolactin and oxytocin can lead to mood swings, sadness, or even a touch of depression.

Here’s what can help:

• Talking to other parents who’ve been there
  
• Journaling or reflecting on your pumping journey
  
• Cuddling with your baby to maintain that oxytocin connection
  
• Reminding yourself that this choice doesn’t change how much you care
  

Your bond with your baby has never been about pumping, it’s about presence, love, and care.

Signs that your body is ready to stop pumping

You’ll know your body is adjusting to weaning when:

• Your breasts feel less full throughout the day
  
• You go longer between sessions without discomfort
  
• Leaking is minimal or gone
  
• You’re emotionally at peace with your decision

When to consult a doctor or a lactation consultant

If you’re feeling unsure, notice signs of clogged ducts or mastitis, or find the emotional side of weaning overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant. They can help you create a gentle plan, spot problems early, and remind you, you don’t have to figure this out alone.

Conclusion

Weaning from pumping is a huge step, and one that deserves care, support, and kindness (to yourself most of all). Whether you pumped for three weeks or three hundred days, your dedication made a difference.

Take your time. Go gently. And know that weaning isn’t the end of your bond, it’s just a new chapter in your parenting story.