When milk engorgement occurs, it often happens shortly after the baby is born; the breast has not yet adjusted its milk production to the baby’s needs, feeding times have not yet settled into a routine, and the whole new situation causes stress for the new mom. The Breast engorgement In a young mother, symptoms include unusually swollen breasts, pain when the breasts are touched, or hard, lump-like areas on the breasts. The milk cannot drain from the breasts.
What to Do If You're at Risk of a Milk Blockage
If a milk engorgement is imminent, or if the mother feels signs of one, the first step is to latch the baby on. Breastfeeding should not be interrupted under any circumstances. Often, by slightly adjusting the breastfeeding position so that the baby’s jaw is directed toward the area with the most severe blockage, the baby’s sucking motions can act as a kind of massage, allowing the milk to flow more easily. Since a milk blockage can be very painful, it’s advisable to warm the breast slightly before breastfeeding, as this stimulates milk flow. If the baby doesn’t want to feed—perhaps because they have a slight cold—expressing some milk to relieve the most intense pressure can also help; this is best done in the shower, as the warm water also stimulates milk flow. However, continuing to breastfeed the baby regularly is the best remedy.
A midwife always knows what to do in case of a milk blockage
If you’re unsure, or if the pain is too severe, it’s very helpful to consult a midwife. She can give you additional valuable tips and better assess the severity of the blockage, since an untreated milk blockage can also lead to mastitis. A curd wrap is a time-tested remedy that midwives recommend. After breastfeeding, simply place a cloth with fresh cottage cheese on your breast and leave it there until the cottage cheese has dried.
