How to Treat Engorged Breasts

Around 2-3 days post partum, the breasts normally become engorged (swollen and uncomfortable) due to the increase in blood flow and start of milk production. Here are some measures you can do to relieve engorgement.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Get fitted for a nursing nursing bra when your milk comes in. Then wear that bra all the time, even at night!
2. Nurse your baby frequently, even if you have to wake up the baby. Try nursing every 1-3 hours.
3. If the areola is very firm, express a little milk first before having the baby latch on to prevent damage to your nipples.
4. Have baby nurse at least 10 minutes on each side to help empty the breast. You may even want to nurse on just one side until the breast softens. Then limit nursing on that side during the next feeding.
5. Try massaging your breast while the baby is nursing to help improve milk flow and let down.
6. Apply a cold packs to breasts after nursing.
7. if needed, take a mild pain reliever. Make sure you take approved over-the-counter meds, you have to be careful when you are nursing.
   acetominophen is ok.
8. If engorgement lasts more than a couple days, use a breast pump to drain both breasts completely. but be careful, over-pumping can stimulate more milk production since your body produces milk by demand. Once every 24 hours should be okay.
9. taking a warm shower and then expressing a little milk can help relieve pressure.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact Le Leche League for questions about breastfeeding
• Most hospitals have lactation consultants through the maternity ward.
• Make sure your baby is drinking enough milk. He/She should have 6-10 wet diapers a day.
• Your baby's pediatrician can be very helpful with questions on breastfeeding as well.
• Don't over pump or you could generate more milk production.