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Topics Covered for Breast-FeedingIf your baby is healthy, skip the "What to Do" section. Go directly to the topic number that relates to your question for advice: Show
Expert Reviewers:Maya Bunik, M.D., Lisbeth Gabrielski, RN, and Marianne Neifert, M.D., Lactation specialists When to Call for Breast-Feeding QuestionsCall 911 Now
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Care Advice for Breastfeeding
And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the 'Call Your Doctor' symptoms.Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it. Last Reviewed: 11/11/2022 Last Revised: 01/13/2022 Copyright 2000-2022. Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC. How do you prevent engorged breasts when breastfeeding?Breastfeed first from the engorged breast. Before feedings, encourage your milk flow. Put a warm, moist washcloth on your breasts or take a warm shower for 10-20 minutes. Massage your breasts before and during feedings, moving from the chest wall to the nipple.
How should the mother's engorged breast be managed?Massage your breasts gently while feeding to help the milk drain effectively. Express a little milk, either by hand or with a breast pump before breastfeeding to help soften your nipple so it's easier to latch on to. If your breasts are still very firm and full after a feed, express again until you feel comfortable.
What is the most therapeutic intervention for breast engorgement in a breastfeeding mother?Gua Sha scraping therapy was found to be more effective than hot packs and massage in reducing symptoms of breast engorgement, though both forms of treatment decreased breast temperature, engorgement, pain and discomfort at five and 30 minutes after treatment.
How often should you pump to prevent engorgement?Excessive or habitual pumping can lead to overproduction of milk and prolonged engorgement. If you're exclusively pumping and feeling engorged, make sure you're pumping enough (eight to 12 times in a 24-hour period) and that your pump is working well.
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