One of the common issues faced by new mothers during the breastfeeding journey is the problem of hard and swollen breasts. This condition is also known as engorgement.

Engorgement happens when the milk-producing glands of the breast become dangerously full, usually because of inadequate milk expression or obstruction in milk flow. Hard, swollen breasts can be extremely painful and uncomfortable, making it difficult for mothers to feed their babies effectively. In this article, we will share some tips on how to deal with hard and swollen breasts during breastfeeding.

What causes engorged breasts?

Engorgement can happen to any breastfeeding mother, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Some of the most common causes of engorged breasts are:.

Inadequate milk expression: When a mother is unable to empty her breasts entirely during feeding, there is a higher chance of engorgement. This can occur when a baby is not latching correctly, or if the mother is not breastfeeding frequently enough.
Milk Oversupply: Some mothers may experience an overproduction of milk, leading to a gradual accumulation of milk in the breasts. While this isn’t a bad thing, milk oversupply can cause engorgement.
Weaning: If a mother chooses to stop breastfeeding suddenly, the breasts may become engorged as the milk production doesn’t have an outlet to be emptied.
Plugged ducts: These are blocked milk ducts that can cause the milk to back up, leading to a buildup of milk pressure and engorgement.

: Signs of engorgement

It’s essential to know the signs of engorgement in order to avoid any further complications. Below are some signs and symptoms of engorgement:.

The breasts feel swollen and hard.
The breasts may look shiny and stretched.
The nipples may be flat and hard to grasp.
Baby may have difficulty latching on properly.
Mothers may feel pain and tenderness in their breasts.
Mothers may experience fever or flu-like symptoms.

: Dealing with engorgement

If you’re experiencing engorged breasts, below are some tips you can try to alleviate the discomfort:.

1. Breastfeed frequently

The best way to prevent and relieve engorgement is to breastfeed frequently. Make sure that your baby is feeding on both breasts during each feeding session.

If your baby is not latching on correctly, try different breastfeeding positions until you find one that works best.

2. Express milk manually or with a breast pump

If your breasts are too swollen and hard for your baby to latch on, consider expressing milk manually or with a breast pump. This can provide temporary relief and make it easier for baby to latch on.

Make sure to only express enough milk to relieve the pressure, as overexpression of milk can exacerbate engorgement issues.

3. Warm compresses or showers

Applying a warm compress or taking a warm shower can help to increase blood flow to the breasts, which can help to relieve pain and swelling. A gentle breast massage can be incorporated as well to help relieve symptoms.

4. Cold compresses or cabbage leaves

Applying a cold compress or chilled cabbage leaves to the breasts can help to reduce swelling and pain. This can be done after breastfeeding or pumping, and it’s essential to limit the time of application to 20 minutes at a time.

5. Manage pain and discomfort

Engorgement can be very painful and make it challenging to breastfeed. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help to relieve pain and discomfort, if allowed by your healthcare provider.

Make sure to consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medication you consume while breastfeeding.

: Preventing future engorgement

Engorgement can be avoided with the following tips:.

1. Feeding frequently and on-demand

Feed your baby frequently, on-demand. Nursing babies are far more efficient at removing milk from the breast than a pump or manually done by the mother. This will also help to prevent milk oversupply and ultimately, engorgement.

2. Make sure proper latching is achieved

Ensure that your baby is latching on correctly as this can help to prevent engorgement. Aim the nipple for the roof of the mouth, and ensure that your baby’s lower lip is flanged.

If your baby is struggling to latch on, seek assistance from a lactation consultant.

3. Proper milk expression

As stated earlier, proper milk expression is essential to prevent engorgement. Express milk if your baby is not latching well, or if your breasts feel uncomfortably full.

However, avoid overexpression as this can lead to oversupply and future engorgement issues.

Conclusion

Dealing with hard and swollen breasts during breastfeeding can be extremely difficult and painful. Engorgement can make it difficult for mothers to feed their babies and lead to further complications such as mastitis.

However, engorgement can be dealt with through frequent nursing, warm/cold compresses, and proper latching and milk expulsion. These tips can help provide temporary relief and prevent future engorgement if followed correctly.