Breast Engorgement

Breast engorgement, or painful swelling of the breasts, happens when the breasts make more milk than the amount being used. It is common among nursing mothers, mothers who are weaning and new mothers who bottle feed their babies. This painful condition usually happens from two to five days after delivery, but engorgement can also happen any time you are unable to release excess milk from the breasts.

Symptoms of Breast Engorgement

Common complaints of women who experience breast engorgement are swelling, of the breasts and underarms, hardening of the breasts, flattening of the nipples, making it difficult for your baby to latch on for feedings, and warming of the breasts. There is no doubt that this can be a very uncomfortable condition.

How To Prevent Breast Engorgement

Make sure that you breastfeed a minimum of eight times per 24-hour period. It is a good idea to pump your breast milk if you skip a feeding with your baby. Also be sure to wean your baby off of breast milk slowly and gradually.

Finding Relief

It is not a permanent condition and there are some things you can do at home to relieve the pain of engorged breasts. Before breast feeding you should take a warm shower. Breastfeed every one to three hours and then ice your breasts after breast feeding. If all else fails, ask your doctor to recommend a safe over-the-counter drug to reduce the pain and soreness.

When Bottle Feeding

If you are bottle feeding your little one, the mils will gradually stop since your baby isn’t stimulating your body to produce more milk to keep up with his demand. Though you will experience engorged breasts for several days after giving birth, the pain an swelling won’t last long and the milk supply will diminish.