As a new mom, the breastfeeding journey can come with excitement, joy, and unexpected challenges. One of the most common yet uncomfortable issues that many breastfeeding mothers face is engorgement. While it's a normal part of the postpartum experience, dealing with engorgement can be overwhelming—especially in the early weeks. If you're struggling with this, know that you're not alone. There are practical ways to manage and find relief to continue providing the best for your baby while caring for yourself.

Let's dive into some helpful tips to relieve engorgement and help you feel more comfortable.

What is engorgement?

Engorgement occurs when your breasts become overly complete with milk. It often happens in the first few days or weeks postpartum when your milk supply adjusts. This overproduction of milk causes the breasts to swell, feel tight, and become hard to the touch. Engorged breasts can cause pain and redness and make it harder for your baby to latch. While it's a common part of breastfeeding, it's important to manage engorgement to prevent issues like clogged ducts or mastitis.

Common signs of engorgement:

• Full, heavy, and tight breasts: Your breasts may feel stiff and swollen.
• Soreness or pain: Engorged breasts can cause discomfort or even pain when touched.
• Difficulty breastfeeding: Your baby may struggle to latch if your breasts are too full.
• Warmth and redness: The breasts may appear warm to the touch.
• Flattened nipples: The nipples may become less pronounced, making it more difficult for your baby to latch properly.

Tips for Comfort and Relief

Here are some proven strategies to help ease the discomfort of engorgement and support your breastfeeding journey:

1. Frequent Breastfeeding or Pumping

Engorgement occurs when there is too much milk in your breasts and not enough removal. The best way to manage engorgement is to ensure that your baby is nursing frequently—about every 2-3 hours or as often as they demand. If your baby isn't nursing frequently enough or you're away from them, consider pumping to relieve the fullness.

Tip: Aim to breastfeed on each side for 15-20 minutes, allowing your baby to nurse until they've emptied the breast. This can help regulate your milk supply and relieve engorgement.

2. Apply Cold Compresses Between Feedings

Applying a cold compress to your breasts after nursing or pumping can help alleviate swelling and soothe the pain. Cold packs or even chilled cabbage leaves can provide immediate relief. Make sure to wrap the cold source in a cloth to prevent direct contact with the skin.

Tip: Apply a cold compress for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times daily.

3. Gentle Massage

Massaging your breasts before or during breastfeeding can help relieve engorgement and promote milk flow. Use your fingers to gently knead the area, starting at the top of your breast and moving toward the nipple. This can help loosen any blockages and relieve the pressure.

Tip: Be cautious not to apply too much pressure, which can cause additional discomfort.

4. Ensure Proper Latching

One of the reasons engorgement can be painful is that it can make it difficult for your baby to latch correctly. A poor latch may result in ineffective feeding, which can worsen engorgement. Ensure your baby is positioned correctly with their mouth wide open, covering both the nipple and areola. A good latch ensures that your baby can empty the breast effectively.

Tip: If you're struggling with latch issues, consult a lactation consultant for personalized guidance.

5. Take Warm Showers

While cold compresses help with swelling, a warm shower can help promote milk flow and relieve tightness. Let the warm water run over your breasts to encourage milk release before breastfeeding or pumping.

Tip: Gently massage your breasts in the shower to assist in milk flow.

6. Wear the Right Bra

Wearing a supportive, well-fitting nursing bra can help relieve some of the pressure caused by engorgement. Be sure not to wear a bra that's too tight, which could restrict milk flow. A soft, non-restrictive nursing bra is ideal for comfort.

Tip: Avoid wearing underwired bras during the early postpartum period to prevent unnecessary pressure on your milk ducts.

7. Take Pain Relief (If Needed)

Over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation if you're in significant discomfort. Always check with your healthcare provider before taking any medications, especially if you are breastfeeding.

Tip: Always follow the dosage instructions and consult your doctor if you have concerns.

8. Cabbage Leaves (A Time-Tested Remedy)

Though it might sound old-fashioned, many mothers have used cabbage leaves for centuries to ease engorgement. The natural properties of cabbage help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Chill cabbage leaves in the refrigerator, then place them over your breasts. Replace the leaves every few hours.

Tip: Don't leave the cabbage leaves on for more than 20 minutes at a time.

When to Seek Professional Help

While engorgement is normal, it's important to seek medical help if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent pain or swelling that doesn't improve with treatment
• Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms (could indicate an infection)
• Hard lumps that don't go away after feeding or pumping (may suggest a blocked duct or mastitis)

Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Engorgement can be a painful and frustrating experience for new moms. Still, with the right strategies, it doesn't have to interfere with your breastfeeding journey. You can ease discomfort and maintain a healthy, steady milk supply by following the tips mentioned above.

If you're a breastfeeding mom looking for further support, join other mamas inside The Postpartum Shift. Unlock a wealth of nutritional guidance, meal plans, schedules, and recipes designed specifically for breastfeeding moms during the first year postpartum. Achieve your healthiest self without sacrificing your favorite foods or compromising your milk supply.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional about your specific health concerns.