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COMMON PROBLEMS WITH BREASTFEEDING: BREAST ENGORGEMENT AND MASTITIS
Breast engorgement
In the first few days after the baby is born, your breasts may swell and feel quite uncomfortable. This swelling is due to the build up of an excess amount of milk inside the milk ducts, and usually occurs during the transition from colostrum to full breastmilk. The discomfort may be eased by massaging your breasts before a feed to reduce any lumps, and by feeding frequently. Expressing a small amount of milk before each feed can also help. The application of a warm compress at the start of a feed can often provide relief, as can cold compresses between feeds.
Occasionally, if breast engorgement continues for some time, the breasts will become inflamed and a secondary infection may set in. This can be distressing and quite painful if not treated promptly. If you have mastitis, your breasts will be swollen and tender and you may also feel generally unwell or feverish. The affected area may look red and be sore to touch. The treatment for mastitis is usually paracetamol for pain relief, in addition to a short course of antibiotics. It is important to continue breastfeeding, and it may be easier for you to position your baby so that feeding positions for different feeds, in order to allow drainage of all milk ducts. Check for lumps after each feed and if you find any either massage them, or express the milk from the ducts in this area.
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