Breast engorgement occurs when the breasts have too much milk and fluid in them. This can happen if a baby misses a feeding or if he or she is not completely draining all of the breast milk during a feeding. It can also occur if a mother is producing more milk than her baby needs. Symptoms of engorged breasts are painful swollen breasts that feel firm or hard to the touch. Engorgement can also cause latching problems for a baby because a mother’s nipples may not protrude as much as usual.
Mothers with engorged breasts should feed their babies on demand, starting with the most painful breast. It is very important that a mother makes sure that her baby entirely drains the first breast before switching to the other breast for feeding. Taking a warm shower or applying a warm compress to an engorged breast prior to a feeding can soothe any pain and may help milk to flow more easily. If necessary, a mother should consult with her doctor about pain relief.
It is very important to treat the symptoms of engorgement so as to prevent mastitis. Mastitis occurs when the milk ducts and glands within breasts become inflamed. Mastitis can happen during weaning or if a baby is not properly latching or fully draining breasts during feeding. Other causes of mastitis include blocked milk ducts, cracked nipples, bacteria within the breast, wearing a bra or clothing that is too tight, stress, or having previously had mastitis.
The symptoms of mastitis include sore, swollen breasts that feel warm and tender to touch. There may also be sharp or shooting pains within the breast. The skin may have red streaks and have a shiny appearance. The pain from mastitis worsens during breastfeeding. Mothers with mastitis may also have flu-like symptoms such as tiredness, fever, sweating and headaches.
A mother with mastitis should consult with her doctor about receiving antibiotics to clear up infection. She should also feed her baby on demand with the sorest breast first. If there is excess milk in the breast after a feeding it can be expressed so as to ensure the breast is completely drained. Any lumps in the breast can be massaged toward the nipple so as to fully drain the inflamed duct. Mothers with mastitis should also make sure to wear loose-fitting clothing and to get plenty of rest and fluids.