Dealing With Breast Engorgement
How to Reduce Breast Pain and Swelling for Easier Breastfeeding
Sep 7, 2009
Breast engorgement is a common breastfeeding problem that most new moms suffer from, especially, when the milk starts to come in. While this is a sign of adequate breast milk supply, it can cause a lot of discomfort. Not only that, painful and swollen breasts also make breastfeeding difficult and can convince mothers to give up feeding babies altogether. Here are some ways on reducing the pain caused by engorged breasts and make breastfeeding easier.
Use a Nursing Bra
A well-fitting nursing bra will provide support and reduce discomfort. However, the bra should not be excessively tight, since that will put undue pressure on the breasts and increase pain. It is a good idea to invest in a few nursing bras not only to reduce breast pain but also to enjoy ease in feeding baby.
Use a Breast Pump
Pumping breast milk can help to relieve the tightness and engorgement. However, a breast pump should only be used if baby is not feeding frequently or hungrily enough to reduce the swelling. According to the authors of the book What to Expect the First Year (Pocket Books, 2004), pump only a little to reduce pain otherwise breasts will produce more milk than what is needed, which will cause more engorgement.
Expressing Breast Milk Manually
Hand-expressing a little milk prior to a feeding session will soothe pain and also, make it easier for baby to latch on. Use a warm compress to soften the breast and nipple area and encourage the flow of milk. To make a warm compress, simply soak a clean hand towel in a bowl of warm water and then, place it on the breasts for a short while.
Breastfeed Frequently
According to What to Expect the First Year, frequent breastfeeding is the best way to deal with engorged breasts. The reason for this is that the lesser baby feeds, the more the breasts get filled with unused milk. However, when baby nurses more, more milk is used up, therefore reducing the pain.
Use Ice Packs to Relieve Breast Pain
Just as warm compresses can be used to relieve discomfort, ice packs can also be used to soothe sore and swollen breasts. However, ice packs should be used after breastfeeding and not before or during. Chilled cabbage leaves, according to What To Expect The First Year, also reduce breast pain and discomfort.
Engorgement is usually a temporary breastfeeding problem and once a regular cycle of feeds is established, the breasts will produce milk accordingly. Until then, it will be a good idea to use any of the tips given above to soothe pain and reduce swelling, so that both baby and mother can enjoy feeding sessions. For more on bonding with baby, do read A New Mom's Guide to Baby Massage.
References:
Eisenberg, Arlene. Hathaway, Sandee. Murkoff, Heidi. What To Expect The First Year. Pocket Books, 2004
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