15/09/2025
What is Breast Engorgement?
Engorgement happens when your breasts become overly full of milk, blood, and fluids.
It's a common experience, typically occurring around days 2-5 after birth, as your milk supply shifts from colostrum to mature milk.
Your breasts may feel hard, tight, warm, and tender, and you might even feel a throbbing or aching pain.
What to Do for Relief
Offer Frequent Feeds:
Offer the breast frequently, about every 1.5 to 3 hours. A baby's strong suckle is the best way to drain the breasts.
Use Warmth Before Feeds:
Apply a warm, wet compress, take a warm shower, or immerse your breasts in a bowl of warm water for up to two minutes to help release milk.
Apply Cold Compresses After Feeds:
Use an ice pack, wrapped in a towel, for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
Express Milk for Comfort:
If your breasts are uncomfortably full, gently express a small amount of milk (5-10ml) by hand or with a pump to relieve pressure.
Ensure a Good Latch:
If your baby has trouble attaching due to swelling, try reverse pressure softening to push fluid back into the breast, softening the ar**la.
Remember you. An also take pain relief
https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/breastfeeding-information/problems-with-breastfeeding/baby-wont-latch/
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