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Engorgement

If your breast are really sore and hard, and feel too full, it helps to put something cool on them after a feed. This can reduce the hot, swelling feeling.

Cool packs from the freezer or cold cabbage leaves may help – go to Pain relief for more information.

If the too-full breasts continue but you otherwise feel well then the above treatment can be repeated, making sure the baby is latched well at the breast at each feed.

If your baby is finding it tricky to get the deep latch they need, you can hand express a little milk first. This will soften the areola so that it’s easier to for baby to latch – and less painful for you.

Talk to your lead maternity carer or contact a local La Leche League or other support group for more help.

Find out more from the Ministry

Related websites

KellyMom
Advice on breastfeeding from a certified lactation consultant.

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Page last updated: 19 April 2012