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Breastfeeding: Engorgement

Tips for Dealing with Engorgement

In the next few days after giving birth, you may notice your breasts become full and heavy. You may even start to feel like Dolly Parton! This is engorgement, or your milk coming in.

Some women may feel extreme discomfort, and others may not notice anything more than mild discomfort for a short period of time. If you are one of the unlucky ones, there are various methods to try to help alleviate the pain of engorgement.

  • The best thing to do is nurse your baby frequently. If you can’t nurse for some reason, then try pumping or hand expressing your milk. This should give you immediate gratification.
  • Taking a warm bath or shower can also do wonders. If you are still bed-ridden, wrap a warm wet cloth around your breasts for a few minutes to ease the soreness.
  • Some mothers say that alternating between a cold and warm compress can reduce swelling.
  • You may want to express some milk before your baby nurses to help him latch on. Engorgement can make it difficult for them to latch correctly.

Engorgement can be fairly uncomfortable but just remember that it will pass quickly. It’s all part of that wonderful breastfeeding experience!

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