breast feeding (full breast)

Last reviewed 11/2023

This is a normal physiological phenomenon (1).

Usually occurs between 3 to 5 days after birth as the breast milk "comes in".

• the patients feels uncomfortable and the breasts feel heavy, hot and hard, sometimes can be lumpy (1)
• shininess, oedema, or redness is not present
• the milk usually flows easily and sometimes drips out spontaneously
• both breasts are usually affected (1)

If not managed properly it may lead to breast engorgement.

Treatment options include:

• inform the patients that this is a normal occurrence
• mother should be encouraged to breast feed frequently as fullness decreases after a feed
• provide any advice on proper attachment of the infant to the breast which will improve milk removal and avoid damage to the nipples (1)
• reassure the woman that after a few days the condition resolves and the milk production adjusts to the babies needs

Reference:

• 1. World Health Organization (WHO) 2009. Infant and young child feeding. Model chapter for textbooks for medical students and allied health professionals