Breast engorgement is a common experience in the early postpartum period, usually beginning 2–5 days after birth when milk "comes in." Breasts may feel full, heavy, warm, and uncomfortable—this is typically temporary and resolves within 24–48 hours with proper care.

How to Prevent or Minimize Engorgement

• Feed frequently: Aim for at least 10 feeds in 24 hours, including night feeds.

• Feed on demand: Wake sleepy babies every 2–3 hours if needed.

• Let baby finish one side before offering the other.

• Ensure a good latch and positioning to help milk flow and soften the breast.

• If baby isn't feeding well, express milk to protect supply and reduce fullness.

• Avoid short, timed & supplementary feeds

Signs of Engorgement

• Breasts feel hard, hot, tender, and may appear shiny.

• Areola may feel firm and tight, making latching harder.

• May include a low-grade fever or extend into the armpits.

• Can affect one or both breasts and vary in severity.

Relief Tips

Before feeding:

• Use gentle massage with moist warm compresses for a few minutes only to start milk flow

• Use reverse pressure softening or hand expression to soften the areola if baby struggles to latch.

While feeding:

• Use breast compressions and massage.

• Pause to re-latch if needed for better positioning.

Between feeds:

• Express milk only for comfort—don't overdo it to avoid overstimulation.

• Cold packs and cabbage leaves can reduce swelling.

• Wear a supportive, well-fitting bra (not tight).

When to Seek Help

Contact a lactation consultant or health provider if:

• Engorgement doesn’t improve

• Baby struggles to latch or isn't having enough wet/dirty nappies

• You have symptoms of mastitis (painful redness, fever, flu-like symptoms)

Natural Remedies

• Cabbage leaf compresses (briefly, no more than 3x/day)

• Juice jar suction method to relieve pressure or help baby latch

• Fenugreek seed poultice for relief from swelling or mastitis

Cabbage Leaf Compresses
Cabbage leaves can help reduce swelling and discomfort from engorgement or oversupply.

• Use clean green cabbage leaves, chilled or room temperature.

• Apply to breasts between feeds for up to 20 minutes, no more than 3 times a day.

• Stop use once engorgement eases, as overuse may reduce milk supply.

Juice Jar Breast Pump (can also use Haaka pump)
This DIY suction method can relieve engorgement or help baby latch:

• Use a clean glass jar filled with hot water, then emptied.

• Gently place the breast in the jar to create suction as the air cools.
Caution: Break suction if it becomes uncomfortable to avoid tissue damage.

Fenugreek Poultice
A traditional remedy for engorgement or mastitis:

• Soak and mash fenugreek seeds, then warm and apply as a poultice.

• Can help with let-down and soothe soreness.