A new mother states her preference to formula feed her newborn. What will the nurse planning discharge instructions tell her to help suppress lactation and promote comfort?

When a mother chooses not to breastfeed, the goal is to suppress lactation quickly and minimize discomfort from engorgement. Wearing a well-fitting, supportive bra continuously for several days is the recommended nonpharmacological method to suppress milk production. The bra provides gentle, consistent compression that inhibits milk letdown by reducing stimulation, supports the engorged breasts, and helps decrease vascular congestion. Over time, the lack of milk removal signals the body to decrease prolactin release and slow production. Expressing small amounts of milk is counterproductive because any stimulation of the nipple and breast signals the body to continue producing milk, perpetuating the engorgement rather than suppressing it. Standing in a warm shower and allowing water to spray over the breasts can stimulate milk letdown reflex via warmth and tactile stimulation, which also counteracts suppression efforts. Massaging the breasts when they ache similarly encourages letdown and continued milk production. Ice packs, analgesics, and avoiding nipple stimulation are additional strategies used alongside wearing a supportive bra. The key teaching point is that any form of breast stimulation — whether through expression, warmth, or massage — perpetuates lactation, while consistent mechanical support through a well-fitting bra is the most effective way to achieve comfort and suppress milk production in a mother who has chosen not to breastfeed.