Chest pain and heaviness are the main signs of milk stagnation. If, at the first symptoms, the necessary measures are not taken, then in the future, the nursing mother may have an increased body temperature, and painful and compacted areas in the chest. Milk stasis, or lactostasis, is a problem that worries many girls after childbirth. You can cope with it.
Causes of stagnant milk in the breast
Milk stagnation usually occurs when there is no movement in any part of the breast. The milk plug then forms a barrier. The result is swelling of the breast tissue. This is followed by painful sensations, the formation of seals, redness and a rise in temperature.
There are various reasons for stagnant breast milk. The most common is too long between feedings. In this case, the milk literally stagnates in the breast without any advancement.
Often the problem arises when a mother feeds her baby in the same position or sleeps on one side. In this case, in some areas of the breast (mainly under the armpits), the natural movement of milk is suspended.
Breast milk stagnation can also be triggered by the following reasons:
- general fatigue and lack of sleep;
- change of weather;
- insufficient amount of fluid in the body;
- improper diet;
- unsuitable underwear for feeding;
- pumping after each feeding.
In any case, if you are faced with the problem of milk stagnation, you should consult a qualified specialist. An experienced doctor will give you helpful advice and advice.
Helpful hints
At the first sign of stagnant breast milk, try to offer the breast to the baby more often. Try to change the position of the baby while feeding.
Remember: when sucking, the baby works more actively with the lower jaw. That is why he sucks milk best from the part of the breast where his chin points. To deal with stagnation, try to keep this fact in mind.
If the heaviness and compaction of the breast is observed in the armpit area, then the child will best dissolve it in the position from under the arm. Feeding while lying on your side will help manage mid-chest congestion.
Often times, such changes in feeding positions help to cope with stagnant breast milk. If, nevertheless, additional breast pumping is required, then it is recommended to carry out them as follows. First, apply a warm compress for 5-7 minutes. This procedure promotes good milk flow. After that, gently and carefully it is necessary to massage the place of stagnation. Only then can you move on to expressing milk, paying special attention to the stagnation zone. To reduce tissue swelling, apply a cold compress for 5-7 minutes.
