My Boobs Are Killing Me!

It sounds like you've got a massive case of plugged ducts, and the only way I know from experience to relieve that is frequent pumping/nursing. Which defeats your purpose.

I'd watch for infection (redness, fever), and contact a lactation consultant or La Leche League leader. Things I've heard of for drying up milk are cabbage leaves in the bra and taking a decongestant like Sudafed for a few days (the original, over-the-counter stuff would be more effective).

If you're trying to get the milk out, you should use a warm compress or hand-express in a hot shower. If you're just trying to relieve pain a cold compress would be the thing, as well as your pain reliever of choice. But if you have a fever, head straight to the doctor!

I agree with the other post about watching out for infection (redness, heat and swelling) but usually heat & pumping will stimulate your milk production. Most doctors recommend ice and tylenol for pain. I always use a bag of fozen veggies like peas or corn. It'll conform to the shape of your breast giving the best coverage. Don't wait more than 3 days before calling your doctor.

I can totally relate. I remember those days. You are going to think I am completely insane but mine hurt so bad I was willing to try anything anyone told me. A cousin told me to put cabbage in my bra while I was around the house. What a relief. The cabbage is cold so it feels good and there is something in it that helps stop the milk from producing. Sounds crazy and you feel really silly but it works.
Nicole

Hi G. - I wonder if part of the soreness could be that you might be getting PMS symptoms and your period back (assuming you didn't have it while nursing)? This did happen to me when I stopped breastfeeding, and the only thing that helped was to do one final pumping session as a way to kind of cleanse the remaining milk and clear out the ducts. I was totally in pain and remember feeling like I couldn't move, go down stairs, etc. Hot water in the shower or warm cloths also help, but it could be that some of your ducts are still backed up and need to be released, if you will! Watch out for pain that doesn't go away no matter what you do, or your skin feeling really hot to the touch, as those could be signs of clogged ducts that can lead to mastitis. If you don't feel good, that is another sign. Chances are, you just need to get over this final hurdle. Good luck!