Breast engorgement is a common condition that many breastfeeding mothers experience, particularly during the first few days after the birth of your baby. This article explores the causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment methods of breast engorgement.
What is breast engorgement?
Breast engorgement is an excessive accumulation of milk in the breasts, accompanied by increased blood flow and lymph in the breast tissue. This can make the breasts hard, tight and painful. This condition usually occurs when the baby does not nurse often or effectively enough, leading to stagnant milk in the milk ducts.
Symptoms of breast engorgement
Typical symptoms of breast engorgement include:
- Hard, swollen breasts: Breasts become rock hard and may feel hot to the touch.
- Pain and tenderness: Intense pain may be felt in the breasts and sometimes extend to the armpits.
- Redness and warmth: The skin of the breasts may appear red and tight.
- Mild Fever: A slight fever (37.5 to 38.3°C) may accompany engorgement.
- Baby has difficulty catching the engorged nipple
Causes of breast engorgement
Several factors can contribute to breast engorgement:
- Insufficient drainage of the breasts: If the baby does not breastfeed often enough (at least eight times per 24 hours) or if the baby has difficulty sucking, milk can accumulate.
- Increased milk production: The surge of milk a few days after birth can sometimes produce more milk than the baby can consume.
- Pressure on the breasts: A bra that is too tight or tight clothing can put pressure on the breasts and block the milk ducts, thus worsening engorgement.
Breast engorgement prevention
To prevent breast engorgement, it is essential to:
- Breastfeed frequently: Offer your baby the breast at least eight to twelve times a day, especially during the first days.
- Ensure a good latch: A good latch allows effective drainage of milk. Consult a lactation consultant if necessary to check your baby’s position and latch.
- Avoid pressure on the breasts: Wear clothes and bras that do not put pressure on the breasts.
Treatment of breast engorgement
If engorgement occurs despite preventative measures, the following strategies may help relieve symptoms:
Frequent feedings:
- Breastfeed frequently to empty the breasts as often as possible.
- Vary breastfeeding positions to facilitate complete drainage.
Milk expression:
- If the baby cannot suck effectively, express milk manually or with a breast pump to relieve pressure.
- Use counter-pressure softening to help baby latch on more easily.
Hot and cold compresses: first cold and then hot
- First apply cold compresses by massaging the breasts from the breast areola towards the armpit to drain the inflammatory fluid towards the lymphatic system.
- Then, if it’s feeding time, put your baby to the breast. If not, you can express your milk over the sink or into a cup to unclog until it’s comfortable. If you have difficulty unclogging, you can unclog your breasts in a hot shower by massaging them.
- Once lymphatic drainage has taken place, you can apply warm compresses before breastfeeding to encourage milk flow, massaging the breasts towards the nipple this time.
- Collard greens applied to the breasts can also help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Conclusion
Breast engorgement is a temporary but painful condition that can be effectively managed with preventative measures and proper treatments. By breastfeeding frequently, ensuring a good latch, and using relief techniques, mothers can continue to feed their babies while minimizing discomfort.
