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Treatment of breast engorgement
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Breast engorgement usually occurs during the third or fifth day after baby’s birth due to the ‘coming in’ of milk supply. You can treat it by following the below listed steps.
1) Allow the baby to breastfeed frequently, round the clock, as the infant suckling is the most effective mechanism for removal of milk.
2) Wear a well-fitted, nursing bra for good support during this period.
3) Before each feeding, apply some warm, moist heat (with a warm cloth or compress) on the breasts for a few minutes, or take a short, hot shower. This will help the milk to flow – but do not apply heat for more than five minutes, because it may make the swelling worse.
4) Massage the breast, nipple and areola to clear any blockage and enhance the flow of the milk.
5) Express a bit of milk (by hand or with a pump) before feeding, and while the baby pauses during feeding.
6) Apply a cold pack or cold cabbage on the breast in between feeding to help reduce swelling. Leave the cabbage on for 20 minutes.
7) Take analgesia medication such as panadol to relieve the pain.
8.) Seek help from a lactation specialist if the engorgement is not relieved by the above measures.
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