For new mothers, lactation is a beautiful and essential experience. However, it also comes with some challenges, such as breast fullness and engorgement. These conditions occur when your breasts overfill with milk, leading to discomfort and pain.

To alleviate this discomfort, here are the top remedies for breast fullness in lactating mothers:.

1. Breastfeeding or Expressing Milk

The most effective way to manage breast fullness is to breastfeed your baby frequently. When your baby latches onto your breast, it triggers the release of oxytocin, which prompts milk let-down and relieves breast engorgement.

If your baby is unable to nurse directly, consider expressing milk using a breast pump to relieve the pressure and help with breast relaxation.

2. Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress to your breasts can provide immediate relief from breast fullness. The cold temperature helps to reduce inflammation and swelling, soothing the discomfort.

Place a clean cloth or ice pack on your breasts for 10-15 minutes after feeding or pumping.

3. Warm Compress

Contrary to a cold compress, a warm compress can also help alleviate breast fullness. It aids in improving blood circulation and milk flow. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it on your breasts for 10-15 minutes before feeding or pumping.

4. Cabbage Leaves

Cabbage leaves have been used for centuries to relieve breast engorgement. Simply rinse some cabbage leaves, refrigerate them for a while, and place them inside your bra for about 20 minutes.

The coldness and the natural properties of cabbage leaves help reduce breast swelling and provide relief.

5. Massaging the Breasts

Gentle breast massage can stimulate milk drainage and alleviate breast fullness. Before or during breastfeeding, use your fingertips to gently massage your breasts in a circular motion from the outer areas towards the nipples.

This technique can help improve milk flow and provide comfort.

6. Avoid Tight Clothing and Underwire Bras

Wearing tight clothing and underwire bras can compress your breasts, exacerbating the discomfort caused by breast fullness.

Opt for loose-fitting clothes and supportive, wire-free bras that allow your breasts to breathe and have ample space for milk flow.

7. Proper Latch and Positioning

Ensuring a proper latch and position while breastfeeding is crucial to prevent breast engorgement. Improper latching can lead to inadequate milk removal, and unused milk can accumulate in your breasts, causing fullness.

Seek support from a lactation consultant to ensure correct latching and positioning techniques.

8. Empty Breasts Gradually

When your breasts are overly full, it is essential to empty them gradually rather than suddenly. Suddenly stopping breastfeeding or pumping can cause a sharp increase in breast fullness and discomfort.

Gradually taper off the length and frequency of your nursing or pumping sessions to allow your breasts to adjust.

9. Herbal Remedies

There are several herbal remedies that can help manage breast fullness. Herbs like peppermint, sage, and parsley can reduce milk supply and therefore decrease breast fullness.

However, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider or a lactation specialist before using any herbal remedies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your situation.

10. Seek Professional Help

If breast fullness persists or becomes severe and is accompanied by symptoms like fever or excessive pain, it is advisable to seek professional help.

A healthcare provider, lactation consultant, or breastfeeding specialist can assess your condition and provide personalized guidance or treatment options.