Cabbage for Engorged Breasts

cabbage

Engorgement occurs when the breasts swell after birth due to milk production. Engorgement usually takes place within 2 to 6 days after delivery and can range from mild engorgement to severe engorgement with accompanying pain and tenderness. First-time mothers are more likely to experience severe engorgement than women who have had previous children. Besides discomfort, engorgement may predispose the breasts to infection (mastitis) and may make it more difficult for the suckling infant to latch on to the breast properly, resulting in sore nipples. Nursing more frequently is highly recommended to relieve engorgement, but sometimes breasts remain uncomfortable despite frequent nursing.

Women have been using cabbage leaf compresses for years to relieve the discomfort of engorged breasts.

Engorged Breasts and Cabbage Leaf Compresses

Method

• Rinse the cabbage leaves, then crush or remove the veins.
• Place the cabbage leaf compresses over the breasts.
• The compresses may be left on for as long as desired (some women place them in their bra to keep them in place).
• Compresses may be chilled if desired.
• The area around the nipples may be left uncovered to facilitate nursing.

Why It Works

Experts are not certain why cabbage leaf compresses work to relieve breast engorgement; however, several studies have shown cabbage leaf compresses to be effective in relieving discomfort. There is also much anecdotal evidence to support their use.

Precautions

If breasts are very engorged, reddened and painful, or if fever accompanies the pain and swelling, medical attentions should be sought to rule out breast infection.

More Remedies

• Click here for all Engorged Breast remedies