Relieving breast engorgement

Reverse pressure softening methods (for relieving breast engorgement)

Breast engorgement is a common problem in the early weeks of breastfeeding. Use this technique to soften your breast if they are overfull before breastfeeding or expressing

2-handed, 1-step method

• Curving your fingertips, push in touching the sides of the nipple.
• Hold for 1 to 3 minutes or until you feel the tissue soften.
• It's best to have short fingernails when using this method.

2-handed, 2-step method

• Using 2 straight fingers on either side, push and hold for 1 to 3 minutes.
• Repeat this method, above and below the nipple.

1-handed 'flower hold'

• Curving your fingers, push in around your nipple and hold for 1 to 3 minutes.
• It's best to have short fingernails when using this method.

Try using these methods in front of a mirror until you get used to a preferred method.

Speak to your doctor, child health nurse, a lactation consultant or breastfeeding counsellor for guidance.