Compression for Engorged Breasts

Compresses

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.

Many women find that warm and/or cool compresses can relive the discomfort associated with breast engorgement.

Engorged Breasts and Warm and Cold Compresses

Method

• Apply warm compresses before feeding (heat may stimulate your breasts to produce) to start your milk flowing.
• Alternately, some women find relief from having a warm shower.
• Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and discomfort between or after feeds.

Why It Works

Heat can be soothing and comforting; however, applying warm compresses to your breasts after you have nursed may stimulate your breasts to produce more milk. Cold compresses will not stimulate your breasts, but will soothe discomfort in much the same way that an ice pack can relieve the pain of a sprain.

Precautions

If your breasts are very engorged, reddened and painful and you are experiencing fever, consult your physician to rule out a potentially serious problem, such as a breast infection.

More Remedies

• Click here for all Engorged Breast remedies