Hey there, fabulous first-time moms! Congratulations on embarking on this incredible journey called motherhood. If you’ve just started breastfeeding, you might have encountered a common, yet somewhat uncomfortable companion: breast engorgement. But fret not! We’re here to guide you through the maze of engorgement with a sprinkle of humor and a heap of kindness. Let’s get started on the do’s and don’ts of tackling those rock-hard balloons you’ve got going on.
The Dos:
Frequent Feeding: First and foremost, feed your little one on demand. The more you feed, the quicker you’ll empty your breasts, and the sooner relief will be in sight. Plus, it’s an excellent excuse to have those lovely cuddles!
Hot Showers: A hot shower works wonders for engorged breasts. The warm water relaxes your mammary glands and makes latching easier for your tiny human. You can also “level-up” your shower by trying this. This has saved me so many times.
You will need :
- Haakaa
- warm water
- Organic Epsom Salt
Massage Your Bosom: Gently massage your breasts, working from the outside towards the nipple. Think of it as a spa day for your girls – they deserve it!
Express Milk: If your baby isn’t up for the task, use a breast pump to express milk between feedings. This not only helps alleviate engorgement but can be a handy way to start building a freezer stash.
Gravity Is Your Breast Friend:
- Laid-back breastfeeding: Lie back in a semi-reclined position, with your baby on top of you. This allows gravity to assist in milk flow, and it can be more comfortable for both you and your baby.
- Side-lying position: Lie on your side and bring your baby close to you. This position can encourage better drainage of the ducts, especially if the clog is on the side of the breast.
Comfy Bras: Invest in some comfy, well-fitted bras. They should support, not squeeze. A tight bra can actually compress the milk ducts and restrict the flow of milk, leading to a backup and swelling of the breasts. Think cozy, not corset! Here are two of my favorite that I got from Amazon:
The Don’ts:
Cold Turkey Weaning: Abruptly quitting breastfeeding can lead to engorgement, so plan your weaning process thoughtfully and gradually. It’s generally recommended to gradually reduce the number of feedings over time. This allows your body to adjust to the decreased demand, minimizing the risk of engorgement and associated complications.
Super Tight Bras: Avoid bras that are too tight, as they can trap milk and exacerbate engorgement. Your girls deserve to breathe, just like you! You can find my absolute favorite, most comfortable one here.
Don’t Ignore the Signs: If you notice symptoms like fever or flu-like symptoms, don’t brush them off. These could be indicators of a breast infection, and you should reach out to your healthcare provider.
No Self-Surgery: It might be tempting to whip out a needle or fork (yes, we’ve heard the rumors) for some DIY relief, but trust us, that’s a bad idea. Leave the kitchen utensils in the kitchen.
Cabbage Leaves: You’ve probably heard about this one, but it’s a myth, folks. While cabbage leaves might offer some cooling relief, they can reduce milk supply, which is not what you want.
Remember, first-time mom, you’re doing amazing! Your breasts might feel like they’ve been taken over by aliens, but engorgement is just a phase that will pass. If things get too challenging, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider. You’ve got this, and we’re here to support you on this fabulous, funny, and sometimes frustrating breastfeeding journey. Keep laughing, stay kind to yourself, and keep those bosom buddies happy!