Engorgement

Engorgement

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What is breast engorgement?

When the breast becomes overfilled with milk and becomes painful
An abnormal condition that commonly occurs 3 to 6 days after birth and any other time when a parent’s breasts are not emptied
- Not to be confused with breast fullness, a normal condition that commonly occurs 2 to 4 days after birth that will most likely resolve on its on
Ranges from mild to severe
If not managed well, can result in:
- A decrease in milk supply
- The baby having difficulty latching
- Clogged milk ducts
- Mastitis
- A decreased motivation to breastfeed

Symptoms

Breast fullness	Breast engorgement
Full and/or heavy breast(s) Breast(s) is/are able to be compressed Tender breast(s)	Hard/firm breast(s) and/or areola(e) Breast(s) are swollen, shiny, warm, and slightly lumpy Breast(s) is/are not able to be compressed Breast tightness and pain Flushed breasts Slight fever Numb and tingling hands and arms

Causes of breast engorgement

Prevention

Begin breastfeeding early when the baby shows they are hungry
Breastfeed frequently and do not limit the number of times you feed
Practice proper positioning when feeding
Ensure the baby is latching properly
Make sure the baby is feeding well (effective removal of breast milk from the breast)
- If not, breast expression is encouraged
Feed the baby only breast milk if possible

Breastfeeding with engorgement

Before:
- To promote the removal of milk
  - Breastfeed early when the baby shows signs of hunger
  - Breastfeed frequently without restriction
- Spend time skin-to-skin
- Ensure that the release of milk occurs when you feed
  - Strategies:
    - Relaxation strategies – breastfeeding in a quiet, comfortable position, warm shower, heat application, etc.
    - Massage breasts
    - Simulate nipples
    - Hand express a small amount of milk
During:
- Ensure proper position and latch
- Ensure baby is sucking and swallowing well
  - If not, utilize breast compressions
After:
- If breasts remain hard, hand express some milk
- Apply cold to breasts – avoid direct contact

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