Breast Engorgement in Breastfeeding Mothers

Breast Engorgement

• Occurs when breasts become overly full with milk, leading to swelling, hardness, and discomfort
• Typically happens in breastfeeding mothers, especially in the early days or with sudden changes in feeding frequency
• Causes:
• Increased milk production, especially in the first few days after birth
• Infrequent nursing, leading to milk buildup
• Inefficient milk removal due to poor latch or ineffective sucking
• Sudden changes, such as skipping feedings or abrupt weaning
• Symptoms:
• Swollen, firm, and tender breasts
• Skin may appear shiny and feel tight
• Possible warmth or redness
• Flattened nipples, making it difficult for the baby to latch on
• Management and relief:
• Frequent nursing (at least 8-12 times in 24 hours)
• Proper latch to promote effective milk removal
• Expressing milk to relieve pressure
• Cold compresses between feedings to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Warm compresses before feeding to help milk flow
• Breast massage to help milk flow and relieve discomfort
• Supportive bra to avoid constricting milk flow
• Prevention:
• Feed the baby frequently and on demand
• Ensure proper breastfeeding techniques
• Avoid skipping feedings and maintain a regular feeding schedule
• Gradually wean the baby to avoid sudden changes in milk production

Plugged Duct

• Occurs when milk flow is obstructed in one of the ducts, leading to localized pain and a firm lump in the breast
• Causes:
• Incomplete emptying of the breast during feedings
• Infrequent nursing, leading to long intervals between feedings
• Pressure on the breast, such as from tight bras or sleeping positions
• Stress and fatigue, contributing to insufficient milk removal
• Symptoms:
• Painful, localized lump in the breast
• Area around the lump may be red and feel warm to the touch
• Discomfort that persists after feeding
• Sometimes a white spot on the nipple, indicating a blocked duct at the nipple opening
• Management and relief:
• Frequent nursing on the affected side to help clear the blockage
• Varying breastfeeding positions to help drain all areas of the breast
• Breast massage to help clear the blockage
• Warm compresses before nursing to help open the ducts
• Pumping or hand expressing milk to ensure the breast is emptied
• Rest and hydration to ensure sufficient milk removal
• Avoiding tight clothing and underwired bras
• Prevention:
• Ensuring the baby is latching correctly and breastfeeding efficiently
• Avoiding long gaps between feedings
• Changing breastfeeding positions regularly
• Ensuring complete emptying of the breast during each feeding
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing and avoiding tight bras

Mastitis

• Inflammation of breast tissue, often involving an infection
• Typically affects only one breast, causing pain, swelling, warmth, and redness
• Causes:
• [Information not provided]
• Symptoms:
• [Information not provided]
• Management and relief:
• [Information not provided]
• Prevention:
• [Information not provided]