My daughter was born 9/29. I tried breastfeeding while at the hospital but had to hand express and give it to her through a syringe. I was told to pump even though my milk hadn’t come in and I did a few times, definitely didn’t stick to a schedule. I also gave my baby formula until it did come in. Now that my milk has come in, I’ve pumped a handful of times, pumping a total of less than 10 oz so far.

I wanted to give breastfeeding, or even pumping, a try but with the other commitments in my life it’s adding nothing but extra stress plus the lack of sleep and how sporadic it is when I do get a couple of hours in, and I’m on the verge of having a breakdown. Those other responsibilities I cannot give up, like my classes and my eldest special needs daughter, who I already feel like I’m neglecting (although my mom is helping with her).

But I don’t know how to stop pumping safely without getting clogged ducts and an infection. With my first I didn’t breastfeed/pump, and the milk just went away, however I don’t know the process of stopping once you’ve started.

I would appreciate so much any help anyone can provide me.