Hi Leash
Personally I think that breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for your baby but it can also be one of the worst things you can do. If you are not enjoying breastfeeding and it is causing you as much stress as it sounds to be then your baby will pick up on this and will also not enjoy breastfeeding as much as he should. From what you say I think you are making the right decision for you and your baby. Probably the best way to stop breastfeeding is to drop 1 feed or 1 expressing every 24 – 48 hours. You will have less chance of mastitis if you cut back slowly. If your breast gets engorged between feeds and you feel that you need to express some extra milk only express a small amount, just enough to make your breast feel comfortable. Do not throw out the expressed milk you can give this to your baby.
Signs of mastitis are usually a red area on your breast often with a lump. The red area will usually feel hotter to touch than the rest of your breast. You may also feel like you are getting a head cold or a touch of the flu. Your breast may also be quite painful. If you notice any of these symptoms go to your doctor ASAP. Mastitis can be very very painful and if left untreated it can make you very ill.