Summary
Massaging the breast area, using a hospital grade pump, expressing milk frequently, using a heating pad or taking a warm shower, listening to relaxing music, drinking lots of water and getting as much sleep as possible
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, working with a breastfeeding specialist such as an IBCLC lactation consultant
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, helping baby to latch on
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, hand expressing milk behind the nipple
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, and lymphatic breast drainage
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can help relieve engorgement when milk won't flow. If the engorgement doesn't subside in three to four days or if a fever develops, it is important to call a doctor.
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Breast engorgement can be prevented by monitoring for signs of a more serious problem, such as a breast infection
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, and using strategies to increase milk supply.
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Summary
Find a breastfeeding specialist. Working with a breastfeeding specialist such as an IBCLC lactation consultant can be invaluable to help find the best way to thoroughly drain the breasts and to avoid future engorgement episodes.
Help baby to latch on. If your baby is able to breastfeed, they are usually the first choice to relieve an engorged breast. However, engorgement can change the shape of a breast and/or nipple making it difficult for a baby to latch on.
Hand expression. Gently hand expressing milk behind the nipple may be more effective than a breast pump when milk won’t seem to flow. Alternating a gentle breast massage (below) with hand expressing may help to gently clear the “traffic jam” behind the nipple or release blocked ducts within the breast.
Lymphatic breast drainage. Sometimes breast engorgement is not caused by breast milk and increased blood circulation alone. Other fluids can add to the pressure in the breast causing oedema or swelling particularly in the first week or two after birth.
Engorgement Relief When Milk Won’t Flow - Breastfeeding Support
breastfeeding.support
Summary
Also, call your doctor if the engorgement doesn’t subside in three to four days or if you develop a fever. They’ll ask you to monitor for other signs that may indicate a more serious problem, such as a breast infection.
Breast Engorgement: Causes and Tips for Relief - Healthline
healthline.com
Summary
Your breasts will likely adjust as your body figures out just how much milk your baby needs (or doesn't need if you're not breastfeeding ). But if it doesn't get better, or you become seriously engorged, it can lead to clogged ducts and mastitis, and it can even permanently harm breast tissue.
Engorged breasts: Symptoms, causes, and treatment | BabyCenter
babycenter.com
How to prevent or minimize engorgement Nurse early and often – at least 10 times per 24 hours. Don’t skip feedings (even at night). Nurse on baby’s cues (“on demand”).…
Engorgement • KellyMom.com
kellymom.com
