When you first start breastfeeding your baby, your breasts produce colostrum in small amounts that gradually increase over the first few days. One of the signs milk is coming in is your breasts become fuller and firmer. This swelling is not just caused by the greater quantity of milk, but also by increased blood flow and extra lymph fluids in your breast tissue. For most new moms, if their baby is feeding well and frequently, these feelings of heaviness pass without problems. But some produce almost more milk than their breasts can hold, which makes them feel rock hard and uncomfortably full — a condition called engorgement. While this is usually only temporary, the 24 to 48 hours it typically lasts for can be painful. Engorgement can happen in one or both breasts. It may cause throbbing and swelling, sometimes extending as far as your armpit, and could make your breasts feel fairly hot or lumpy — this is because of all the activity going on inside.

What causes breast engorgement?


Breast compression
Whether this is your first baby or you have many, each baby is unique. Breastfeeding will be a learning process. Breastfeeding support is available. Visit our resources page to find the right kind of help for you. At birth, your breasts will make a thick, yellowish substance called colostrum.
What do engorged breasts feel like?
Nipple discharge is when fluid leaks from one or both nipples. It is normal after a woman gives birth because her breasts are making milk for the baby. Nipple discharge may be a concern when it: happens in a woman who is not breastfeeding occurs on its own, or spontaneously, without squeezing the nipple comes out of more than one duct in the breast has blood in it. Nipple discharge is usually due to a benign condition. Discharge from one nipple is more likely to be caused by a problem in that breast.
Your milk flow can be affected by emotions like anxiety, embarrassment, tension or extreme tiredness. Being relaxed when breastfeeding helps your milk flow. By compressing your breast you will encourage your milk to flow which will provide your baby with more milk. Place your hand around the breast close to your chest wall and compress your breast without causing pain. When your baby is no longer drinking release the pressure. Keep doing this until your breast feels soft and drained and baby is no longer drinking whilst compressing. Then offer your baby the other breast and if he or she becomes tired start your compressions again.