Occasionally women need to wean abruptly due to a new maternal illness such as cancer, or for infant death. If her milk supply is well established, it is best for her to be treated with a medication to reduce her milk supply, such as pseudoephedrine 60mg 2-3 times a day as tolerated, or cabergoline 0.25-0.5mg every 3 days as needed. A well-fitting bra and ice packs will also help discomfort.

Mothers who have suffered infant death might find milk donation very meaningful and comforting as a means of coping with their loss. Many milk banks associated with the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (hmbana.org) have bereavement support programs for these mothers.