Breast engorgement is a common problem that nursing mothers experience. It occurs when there is too much milk in the breast, causing the breast to become swollen and painful. However, some mothers may experience breast engorgement without being able to express milk. In this article, we will discuss the five common causes of breast engorgement and how to deal with them.

Delayed Milk Production

During the first two to five days after giving birth, a mother’s body produces colostrum, a concentrated and nutritious type of milk. This milk is essential for the newborn’s development, but it is not as abundant as the mature milk produced later. It usually takes around three days for the mature milk to come in, and during this time, the breasts can become engorged with little milk being expressed. If the milk still hasn’t come in after three days, mothers should continue to nurse their babies and, if necessary, try hand expression, warm compresses, and gentle breast massage to stimulate milk production.

Overfeeding or Infrequent Nursing

Overfeeding or infrequent nursing can cause breast engorgement. If the baby is not nursing frequently or effectively, the breasts may become overly full, leading to engorgement. Mothers should aim to nurse their babies at least every two to three hours during the day and every four hours at night. If the baby is not nursing well or is experiencing latching issues, it is important to seek help from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider.

Weaning Abruptly

If a mother suddenly stops breastfeeding, her breasts will continue to produce milk, leading to engorgement. Mothers should gradually wean their babies over time by reducing the number of feedings or nursing for shorter periods each day. This gradual process allows the breasts to adjust and reduces the risk of engorgement.

Tight Clothing or Underwire Bras

Wearing tight clothing or underwire bras can restrict milk flow and cause engorgement. Mothers should wear comfortable, supportive bras that do not constrict their breasts.

Plugged Milk Ducts or Mastitis

Plugged milk ducts or mastitis can cause engorgement. Plugged milk ducts occur when milk flow is restricted, while mastitis is an infection that causes inflammation of the breast tissue. Both conditions can cause breast engorgement and should be treated promptly to prevent complications.

How to Deal with Breast Engorgement

Mothers can try the following techniques to relieve breast engorgement:

1. Nurse frequently, at least every two to three hours during the day and every four hours at night.
2. Use warm compresses before nursing to help the milk flow.
3. Massage the breast gently while nursing or pumping to promote milk flow.
4. Use cold compresses or ice packs after nursing to reduce swelling and pain.
5. Try hand expression or pumping to remove excess milk if the baby is unable to nurse effectively.
6. Wear a comfortable, supportive bra that does not constrict the breasts.
7. Seek help from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider if breastfeeding difficulties persist.

Breast engorgement can be uncomfortable and painful, but with the right techniques and support, nursing mothers can overcome it. Mothers should remember to nurse frequently, wear comfortable clothing, and seek help if breastfeeding difficulties arise. With time and patience, the breast engorgement will subside, and mothers can enjoy a successful breastfeeding journey with their babies.