Living Proof Lactation Compassion Visits

A free, one-on-one virtual visit with Amber Tejeda, BSN, RN, IBCLC, for families navigating lactation after pregnancy or infant loss.

Whether you’re trying to suppress your milk, managing engorgement or discomfort, considering expressing or donating milk, or simply have questions you don’t know who else to ask, this is a space for practical guidance, compassionate support, and a space to talk without pressure or expectations.

You don’t have to know what you want to do with your milk before reaching out. We can talk through your options, take things one step at a time, and figure out what support looks like for you.

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There isn't a single path that every family should follow. Your choices may depend on your gestational age, your health, your milk production, your personal wishes, and what feels right for you.
 

Suppressing Milk Production

If your goal is to stop producing milk, there are things you can do to help manage discomfort while your body adjusts. You don't have to force yourself to pump or express milk if that's not what you want.

A few things that may help:

• Wear a comfortable, supportive bra. Avoid tightly binding your breasts.

• Use cold packs or a cold compress for comfort.

• If your breasts become painfully full, you can express a small amount of milk for relief. You don't need to completely empty your breasts.

• Ask your healthcare provider about pain relief options that are appropriate for you.

• Talk with your provider about whether prescription medication to suppress lactation is an option for your situation.

Your milk supply may take time to decrease, and the process isn't identical for everyone. You don't need to rush yourself or feel like you're doing something wrong if your body doesn't follow a predictable timeline.
 

Expressing Milk

Some families choose to express milk after loss. For some, it may be part of honoring their baby. For others, it may be about comfort, creating a keepsake, or exploring donation.

If you are considering expressing milk, you can talk with a lactation professional about your goals, how to manage your supply, and what options may be available to you.
Options you may want to explore:

• Milk donation: For families who wish to donate, I can provide information about Mothers' Milk Bank of Louisiana at Ochsner and other applicable donation resources.

• Milk preservation: Freeze-drying can be an option for families who want to preserve their milk for memories or potential future use. Through the Compassion Collective, limited donated Milkify kits may be available to eligible families. We have also partnered with both Dara Luz Breastmilk Jewelry and Made of Milkies to offer complimentary memorial jewelry for families who would like a keepsake.

• Other choices: You may choose to keep your milk in another way or not preserve it at all. There is no expectation to donate or save your milk.
   

Exploring Milk Donation

For some families, donating their milk can offer a sense of purpose or a way to honor their baby by helping provide nourishment to another baby in need. For others, it may not be something they want to pursue, and that's okay, too.
If you're interested in donating milk:

Start by contacting a nonprofit milk bank to discuss its eligibility requirements and donation process. You do not have to commit to donating simply because you ask questions.

If you're pumping with the intention of donating, contact the milk bank early so you can receive guidance on pumping, storage, and eligibility before you begin.

Mothers' Milk Bank of Louisiana at Ochsner
The Mothers' Milk Bank of Louisiana at Ochsner offers information for bereaved mothers who are producing milk and may be interested in donation. They also provide information about stopping milk production and connecting with lactation support.

Donation inquiries: 504-703-6455
 

I'm Not Sure What I Want

You don't have to have all the answers before reaching out. It's okay to ask questions, talk through your options, and take things one step at a time.

When to Contact your Healthcare Provider
Lactation after loss can involve physical discomfort, and some symptoms need medical evaluation. Contact your healthcare provider for concerns about worsening breast pain, redness or warmth, fever, flu-like symptoms, or other signs of possible infection. Seek urgent medical care for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.