Breast engorgement is one of the most common concerns among the young breastfeeding mothers. Let's see in detail what this phenomenon is, how to prevent it and above all, how to effectively relieve breast engorgement.
What is breast engorgement?
When breasts are engorged, they become congested and swollen. This happens because of a accumulation of breast milk, blood and other fluids in the breast tissue. This swelling can affect the areola but also the contour of the breasts, or both at the same time.
Result ? The breasts become extremely tense and sensitive. The nipples, also affected, flatten and appear more tense than usual. This situation can also be very uncomfortable for the mother and complicate breastfeeding.
What are the symptoms of engorgement?
Breast engorgement is characterized by increase in breast volume, accompanied by pain, tension and a feeling of heat. The most common symptoms of engorgement are therefore sore and sensitive breasts, and often swollen.
Breast pain: when should you worry?
Congestion should not be confused with simple breast congestion which occurs in the first days after childbirth, when lactation activates and begins to increase.
In other words, physiological engorgement is a normal phenomenon which testifies to the onset of lactation. It translates into a increase in volume of milk produced and can be quickly relieved with effective feedings.
However, it can become pathological (and progress to mastitis) if it is accompanied by fever, chills and discomfort during milk flow.
What are the causes of breast engorgement?
Several factors can contribute when a blockage occurs, for example:
- infrequent or ineffective feedings;
- poor latching by the baby;
- wearing a bra that is too tight;
- an overproduction of milk;
- an ill-fitting baby sling;
- too abrupt a withdrawal.
How to prevent breast engorgement?
There prevention is essential to avoid the discomfort of engorgement. Here are some tips to apply:
- Start breastfeeding quickly after birth
- Breastfeed frequently, without duration restriction
- Make sure the baby takes breast correctly
- Alternate positions breastfeeding
- Avoid the use of supplements without medical indication
What to do in case of breast engorgement?
If, despite prevention, you suffer from engorgement, here are some effective solutions and advice to apply to relieve you.
Breast engorgement: natural treatments
The only natural treatment proven to relieve breast engorgement is to express milk.
For this, if your baby is not able to breastfeed or is not feeding effectively, you can express your milk manually or using a breast pump to empty your breast.
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If your baby is able to suckle, here's how to relieve your congestion:
- breastfeed frequently, starting with the most engorged breast;
- apply hot before feeding to facilitate the flow of milk;
- apply cold after feeding to reduce inflammation;
- massage gently your breasts using upward movements (towards your collarbone and armpits) to encourage the flow of milk.
Treatments to avoid in case of breast congestion
Certain practices, formerly recommended, are currently not recommended in case of breast engorgement such as:
- Water restriction: it does not no beneficial effect and can even be harmful to your milk production.
- Breast binding: it worsens discomfort and may increase the risk of mastitis, so it is also not recommended.
When to consult?
If despite these measures, the congestion persists or worsens, consult a healthcare professional promptly who can prescribe painkillers to reduce inflammation. Early treatment can prevent complications like mastitis.
It is important to understand that breast engorgement, although unpleasant, is usually temporary and can be effectively relieved. Do not hesitate to ask for help contact a midwife or lactation consultant if you are having difficulty breastfeeding.
