Hints for Breast Engorgement

Postnatal

To read the previous part of this entry, go to Breast Engorgement During Breastfeeding.

You can do several things for breast engorgement. In this entry, I will explain some hints for before, during and after breastfeeding.

Before breastfeeding:

  • Make sure the areola is flexible before breastfeeding. If it isn’t, apply hot damp compresses for a couple of minutes. Then manually extract a bit of milk to soften the tissues to promote better latching by the baby.
  • Lightly massage the breasts from the thorax towards the nipple.
  • If the breasts are too engorged, manually extract a bit of milk before breastfeeding using a pump (in french).

During breastfeeding:

  • That said, if the baby feeds from one breast only (the most engorged one first), and the mother is still engorged, you shouldn’t empty the breast manually or with a pump. We want relief by getting rid of the milk. So, send a message to the brain to diminish milk production because there is too much.
  • Mothers can lie on their back. The mammary gland will be spread out on the thorax which will diminish the swelling process.
  • You can compress the bumps that appear on the breast during breastfeeding.
  • Increase the number of feedings to each time your baby wakes.
  • Place a hot washcloth on the breast when the baby feeds. This will dilate the blood vessels and expel the contents into the baby’s mouth in an easier way.
  • Move your shoulders to activate circulation. This can help release the contents of the breasts.
  • You partner can massage your back to activate circulation.

After breastfeeding:

  • Apply cold compresses to the breasts, but it’s important not more than 10 minutes per hour.
  • You can apply cabbage leaves. You have to wash them and apply them to the breast without covering the areolae.
  • Use a proper bra to support the weight of your chest without crushing the breast structures.
  • A natural thing that can help is a natural clay poultice applied to the breast. Clay absorbs liquids, so it’s an effective anti-inflammatory. Be careful of lower quality china clay.
  • Pump your milk from the uncomfortably engorged breast to get relief.
  • Finally, we can talk about ultrasounds. Did you know that ultrasound techniques are used by physiotherapists to treat many problems, including pathological engorgement in breastfeeding mothers?
  • You can also use analgesics for relief during breastfeeding. Ibuprofen, naproxen and anti-inflammatory and acetaminophen is a painkiller.

To learn more about other methods, see the next entry Ultrasound Techniques.

Discover our videos

Subscribe to a monthly or quarterly package now to access full videos.

Massage for Pregnant Woman

Massage for Pregnant Woman

Massages can help soothe many pregnancy discomforts, including back or sciatic nerve pain. With a future mother, Geneviève Beaulieu, a
Acupuncture and Pregnancy

Acupuncture and Pregnancy

Did you know that acupuncture is a safe alternative practice during pregnancy and for the baby? Along with Karèya Audet,
The Bonapace method

The Bonapace method

Are you nervous that your baby is coming soon? Do you have questions about your role as caregiver during labour
Preparing your Stay in the Hospital

Preparing your Stay in the Hospital

Who will go with you to the hospital? What papers do you need to fill in before admission? What is