Milk congestion – what can you do?

Introduction

Milk congestion is caused by insufficient secretion drainage due to blocked milk ducts in one or both breasts. Milk production is not restricted in this case. Milk congestion occurs mainly two to four days after delivery.

However, it can also occur during the entire breastfeeding period or occur repeatedly. Milk congestion can cause discomfort in the breast. If the milk congestion persists, it can lead to inflammation of the breast (mastitis). This inflammation of the breast is a frequent complication, especially in first-time mothers, and usually occurs one week after delivery. You can find general information on this topic here: Milk congestion

Causes

One of the main reasons why milk congestion occurs is when the breast is insufficiently emptied. This is the case, for example, when the breastfeeding periods are too short or are performed too rarely. This blocks the milk ducts, as more milk is produced and fills them.

Afterwards, the milk can no longer drain well. An incorrect breastfeeding technique can also hinder emptying and cause a milk congestion. In addition, an overproduction of milk or other drainage problems can be reasons for a congestion of the milk in the milk ducts.

If the bra, sling or rucksack are too tight, they can constrict the milk ducts and cause a congestion of milk by exerting pressure. Furthermore, stress of the mother has a bad effect on the milk delivery. Stress suppresses the so-called milk donor reflex, which ensures that the milk in the milk ducts flows out of the nipple during breastfeeding. This also causes the milk to congest in the breast.

How can milk congestion be detected?

A milk congestion can be recognized mainly by the fact that insufficient or no milk is lost during breastfeeding. In addition, there are complaints in the breast. The breast is hardened, reddened and painful.

If the congestion is only at a certain point on the breast, the hardening can only be felt there as a lump. In addition, the breast is also warmed up there. However, the general condition of the mother is not affected.