Breastfeeding - Nipple Infection? How to wean?

I've had problems nursing my daughter since day one. Daughter's latch very painful and had to stop nursing her at the breast after 7 weeks (she's 12 weeks old tomorrow). I've been pumping exclusively for 5 weeks now and I'm concerned I have an infection in my nipples.
My doctor tested my breastmilk to see if it was candida (yeast) and the test came back negative. My nipples are sore and have a whitish crust on them. I'm nearing the end of my rope with the discomfort and this mystery infection (it's not mastitis, as there is no breast pain). Has anyone else experienced this type of problem?
Additionally, how does one go about weaning? I nursed my son for a year so weaning was a gradual process with him. I am currently producing 30-32 ounces of milk each day and I know stopping cold turkey will be very painful. It's very important to me that my daughter recieve the benefits of breastmilk, but not at the price of my own health and sanity. Help!

hi i had a similar problem when breastfeeding my daughter, the midwife diagnosed me with mastitus and i was given antibiotics and the problem disapeared in a matter of days (make sure you get the anti-biotics that are ok to take while breastfeeding though).

as for weaning, it is best to keep your child on the same amount of milk and introduce foods gradually, once they start eating more you can reduce their milk intake and your milk supply will gradually dry up natrully according to your childs needs, so this shouldnt cause any discomfort.

hope this helps and good luck : )

Call the Laleche program in your area, they will give you sound advice and send you information in the mail. Best of luck.