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The Breast Engorgement Cycle
Typically, one to three days after giving birth (although it can be up to seven days), your breasts will begin producing large quantities of milk. It is normal for your breasts to become larger, get heavier, and feel sore. This fullness should decrease by the first or second week after giving birth if your baby is breastfeeding regularly and well. If not, this fullness could turn into engorgement and feel uncomfortable.
When this happens, the fullness can be painful. It can even make it difficult for your baby to latch on effectively because the nipple has flattened out due to the fullness of your breast. If the nipple flattens out, your baby may have difficulty getting the proper part of the nipple in her mouth to latch correctly.
This can create a painful and frustrating cycle that results in a decrease in milk production, sore nipples, and increased hunger in your baby. If this happens, you should work on treating the engorgement right away (see Breast Engorgement Treatment).
Symptoms of Breast Engorgement
Symptoms of Breast Engorgement
Signs and symptoms of breast engorgement can vary. Some possible indications include breasts that are:
- Firm
- Warm to the touch
- Throbbing
- Uncomfortable or painful.
Some women also will have a low-grade fever (under 101ºF or 38.3ºC).
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD