You must be so happy to have your little one in this world, right? But as a new mom, you may be facing new experiences and sometimes even minor discomforts. Have your breasts suddenly become larger, firmer, and maybe even sore within a few days of having your baby? This is normal for many moms, and we call this breast engorgement.
What is this `Breast Engorgement`?
Simply put, ``Breast Engorgement`` is when your breasts swell in the first few days after having a baby. Did you know, this happens when your body transitions from the first stage of breastfeeding, which begins during pregnancy, to the second stage. When your milk comes in a few days after having a baby, your body prepares to produce more milk. To help with this, more blood and lymph fluid flow to your breasts. This causes fluid to accumulate between the breast tissue, which causes this pain and other symptoms.
But there is good news. This early breast swelling is temporary . Symptoms usually peak about five days after giving birth. This swelling should subside by about two weeks. There are several effective ways to help reduce discomfort during this time.
How does it feel when your breasts swell?
If your breasts are swollen, you may feel things like:
- Swelling of both breasts, especially the areas below the chest.
- Breast pain can sometimes feel a little intense.
- When you touch your breasts, they feel hard and strong, like a rock.
- Rarely, fever, chills, and sweating may occur.
These changes usually begin between three and five days after the baby is born. Sometimes, this swelling may not start until nine or ten days after delivery. Another thing is that this swelling can occur at any time when there is a mismatch between the amount of milk produced and the amount of milk your baby drinks and removes. This is why this condition is more common in those who pump milk instead of according to the baby's needs, because the time to express milk is not what your baby tells you.
When your breasts are swollen, it may be a little difficult for your baby to latch on to your breast.
If you have a fever or chills, you may think you have an infection. But that's not always the case. These symptoms can occur even if the inflammation in the breast is the only one, because it can affect the whole body. However, these symptoms can also occur in cases of bacterial infection, which is accompanied by inflammation of the nipple (Inflammatory Mastitis) or (Bacterial Mastitis). However, the condition usually worsens over a few days and is accompanied by warmth and redness in the breast.
Therefore, it is very important to see a doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts. They can then find the cause and help you manage it properly.
What is the difference between breast swelling (Engorgement) and excessive milk secretion (Hyperlactation)?
Hyperlactation, or oversupply, is when your body produces more milk than your baby (or babies) need. Breast engorgement can be a symptom of hyperlactation, but engorgement does not always mean that you have too much milk.
How to tell the difference between breast swelling (Engorgement) and breast cancer (Inflammatory Breast Cancer)?
Breast engorgement usually affects both breasts equally. This means that both sides swell equally. However, a type of breast cancer called inflammatory breast cancer usually affects only one breast. In this case, you will see an asymmetrical swelling on only one side of the breast. With this rapidly spreading cancer, you may also see other symptoms such as skin discoloration, dimpling, and redness. In other types of breast cancer, one breast may swell due to blockage of the milk ducts.
If you have a lump in just one of your breasts, see a doctor right away. It may not be cancer, but it's important to get checked out right away to rule out the possibility. Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) spreads quickly, so it needs prompt treatment.
What causes breast swelling?
The main cause of breast swelling is an increase in the amount of blood and lymph - a colorless, watery fluid - flowing into your breasts. Doctors also call this ``Hyperemia'', which means there is too much blood flowing to a certain area of the body. During this time, more blood than normal flows into your breasts to help with the breastfeeding process. Lymph provides nutrients to cells and tissues and removes waste products. This excess fluid is what causes your breasts to swell and become uncomfortable.
How to recognize breast engorgement?
Breast engorgement is a temporary condition. Health care providers, such as obstetricians and gynecologists and family health workers, can diagnose it through a physical exam. Your doctor will examine your breasts and talk to you about how you feel. They will also ask you how breastfeeding is going and if you are having any problems.
All of this information will help your doctor determine whether your symptoms are due to engorgement, or another cause, such as ductal narrowing/clogged milk ducts or mastitis.
What are the treatments for breast swelling?
Your doctor will tell you the best ways to manage breast swelling. Here are some of them:
- Do not pump more milk than necessary. Continue to breastfeed or pump as needed.
- Take painkillers like `(Ibuprofen)` and `(Acetaminophen)` for pain. But follow your doctor's instructions exactly when using the medication.
- Apply cold packs to your breasts after breastfeeding. This will help reduce inflammation.
- Get a manual lymphatic drainage massage. Your doctor can do this to improve the lymph flow in your breasts. When the lymph flow in your breasts improves, swelling can decrease. This is a very gentle massage. Gently massage your armpits and collarbones in small circular motions, then work your way from your nipples to your armpits and collarbones (where the lumps are). Your doctor will also show you how to do this at home.
- Try a technique called ``Reverse Pressure Softening.'' This involves applying gentle, even pressure around the areola. This helps move fluid away from the nipple and makes it easier for your baby to latch on. Your doctor will show you how to do this, and then you can do it yourself. It's best to do this for one to three minutes before each feeding, as directed by your doctor.
- Try feeding your baby in a side-lying position. This will help your baby latch on more easily when your breasts are engorged.
- Do not massage your breasts vigorously until your doctor tells you to. They will advise you to use one of the gentle pressure techniques mentioned above. Massaging your breasts too forcefully and too quickly can make your symptoms worse.
- Wear a supportive bra. This does not cause mastitis (a misconception). It is essential to have proper support during this time. The pressure from a well-fitting bra helps to move fluid around the breasts. Your doctor can advise you on special bras that may help you.
Is it good to pump breast milk to reduce swelling?
No, pumping to reduce breast engorgement will only make your symptoms worse. It is a misconception that you should continue to breastfeed or completely empty your breasts as a treatment for engorgement. When you remove all the milk from your breasts, your body will actually make more milk. This will increase the engorgement instead of reducing it.
Your doctor may advise you to use a manual pump - not an electric one - to express just a little milk. Or, they may tell you to express by hand. You may feel a little more comfortable expressing a small amount of milk. But follow your doctor's instructions exactly. Do not pump too much milk or empty your breasts completely.
How long does breast swelling last?
This early postpartum engorgement usually subsides within two weeks. Your doctor will tell you more about what to expect based on your situation.
Can breast swelling be prevented?
The best way to prevent breast engorgement is to express milk as often as your baby needs.
When should I see a doctor?
If you have any symptoms of breast engorgement, or notice any other changes in your breasts, talk to your obstetrician-gynecologist or family health worker. They can find out what's going on and help you feel better.
You may also want to work with a breastfeeding medicine specialist (a doctor who has special training in breastfeeding management) or a lactation consultant. These health professionals can help you get started with breastfeeding. They can also support you throughout the months and years that you breastfeed.
In such a case , call a doctor immediately :
- It's okay if the symptoms persist, or if they get worse.
- If treatment does not reduce symptoms.
- If you notice any changes in just one breast.
The most important thing for you to remember from this article (Take-Home Message)
Pregnancy and childbirth bring many changes to your life, some of which can be a little uncomfortable. Swollen breasts are just one example. Not only can you not get through the day with swollen and painful breasts, but it can also make it difficult to breastfeed your baby. That's why it's so important to seek help as soon as you notice the symptoms. Don't try to cope on your own or rely solely on home remedies. See a doctor to find out exactly what's causing your discomfort and get the right guidance to help you feel better.
` Nipple Swelling, Breastfeeding, Lactation, Breast Pain, Postpartum, Lactation, Mastitis, Breast Engorgement
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