The World Health Organization recommends that all infants have an exclusive breastfeeding diet for their first six months of life. After that period, breastfeeding should complement a child's healthy and balanced nutrition for up to two years.
Despite the many health benefits breastfeeding provides, so many months of nursing can take a toll on any new mom's body. Discomfort levels may vary, but it's not uncommon for women to present engorged breasts at some point of their breastfeeding journey.
Sometimes, breastfeeding moms can present hard, swollen, and sore breasts during the first few days after giving birth. Experiencing mild to moderate pain is expected when the milk first comes in. Other common causes of engorged breasts are:
Breast engorgement is natural, and, in most cases, it can be treated at home. However, moms should seek professional advice if this condition is preventing the baby from latching correctly.
Besides presenting fullness and soreness, engorged breasts can:
Some new mums can even experience low-grade fevers — not higher than 38°C. If the temperature goes any higher than that, seeking medical advice is a must!
Severe engorgement may lead to other breastfeeding problems. A new mum's inability to nurse can cause blocked milk ducts and infection. This condition is commonly known as mastitis and requires an antibiotic prescription. Mastitis has flu-like symptoms such as:
It's hard to avoid breast engorgement entirely, as it's a natural response from the body to the breastfeeding process. Still, there are some actions new moms can take to keep breast soreness and swelling at bay, like:
Mums who are still breastfeeding must never self-medicate, as some over-the-counter drugs can harm their babies. So, how can they make breast pain go away? Using hot & cold gel packs on the sore area will undoubtedly help.
Any mum in distress can relieve discomfort caused by breast engorgement or mastitis with these maternity staples. The heat is an excellent ally before each feeding session, as it will help with the milk flow. On the other hand, the cold will reduce discomfort after feeding or pumping.
No wonder why hot & cold gel packs are every new mom's favourite item nowadays. In addition to using this pain relief essential, other practical techniques to reduce discomfort include:
Breastfeeding should be a beautiful experience for every new mom and her little one. Forget about the pain! If you want some relief for breast engorgement soreness, visit BellyBands and grab your hot & cold reusable gel packs today!
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