What is breast engorgement in lactation

One of the problems that can appear during the first days of breastfeeding is breast engorgement . It happens at the time of the rise of milk, in that first week after delivery. Mammary engorgement causes the nursing mother to be exhausted and in pain. We explain what exactly is and how to treat it.

One of the problems that can appear during the first days of breastfeeding is breast engorgement. It happens at the time of the rise of milk, in that first week after delivery.

Mammary engorgement causes the nursing mother to be exhausted and in pain. We explain what exactly is and how to treat it.

What is breast engorgement and how it affects the nursing mother

Between the third and fifth day after delivery, the lactating mother goes from having colostrum to having breast milk. At that time, the mother may notice a general malaise, bad body, a feeling very similar to the flu. This is known as breast engorgement. Among its symptoms:

- General malaise.

- Climb the temperature in a timely manner.

- Tension in the breasts.

The volume of the breasts increases a lot, and that creates a tension in them, a very characteristic symptom of breast engorgement. In addition, the chest gets harder, which makes it difficult for the baby to grasp. In this case, it is important to quickly solve the problem of milk that can not be drained, since otherwise, breast engorgement can trigger mastitis.

Solutions for breast engorgement in breastfeeding

The main thing is to get the baby to empty the breast . For that, first you have to soften it. How?1. Apply a little local heat before taking it. Enough with a hot shower in the area.

2. Empty the chest a little, manually or with the help of a breast pump. Only until the chest feels a little softer.

3. Put the baby to the breast to finish emptying him.

4. After taking, apply cold in the area.

If the mother is very upset, she can take some anti-inflammatory.

Video about breast engorgement in lactation