Transitioning

I can't really offer any miracles on how to dry up faster other than to stop pumping. Have you tried cold compresses and advil or some other pain reliever for the discomfort? Those both seemed to help me. Also a VERY supportive sports bra will help too. Good Luck and sorry I couldn't be of any more help.

Pumping just enough to relieve discomfort but not trying to "drain" the breast will result in eventual drying up, it just takes a little longer. Just wait until you're feeling uncomfortable, then pump only til you feel better. Gradually there will be longer and longer times between pumpings. This gradual weaning is much easier on your body and you have the added advantage of being able to put your precious breast milk in the bottles for your little guy a while longer, which can only be beneficial to him!
K. RN, IBCLC

When I was letting my milk go my doctor suggested Benadryl. Since it dries out mucous membranes, it helps to dry up the milk. Try taking it as directed for a couple of days and it should help the process to go a little faster. It worked for me. Good luck.

Ok this sounds like an old wives tale but I promise you it works. My best friend had TONS of milk and found out she was severely diabetic and needed medication immediatly and had to ween her son that day. She was so engorged she could not even put on a shirt. She heard this from a Regis and Kathy Lee show. Kathy Lee used this to dry up in time for some special function. She used cabbage leaves directly on the breast. You just put it in your bra and wear it. Not for too long or of course it will smell. Like I said sounds funny but really does work!

Instead of pumping a little. Take 2 diapers, soak in water. ring them out so not dripping wet. put in microwave for 8-12 secs. then wrap each around your breasts. It is warm enough that it will feel good and let a little milk express, kind of like the shower method with out all the hassel. you can reuse the same diapers the next time it starts to hurt.