How should a mother manage a engorged breast while continuing exclusive breastfeeding?

• A. Frequent feeds from both breasts, ensure proper latch, use of breast support; express milk if needed
• B. Stop breastfeeding completely
• C. Apply heat without feeding
• D. Wear a tight bra continuously

Answer: (A)

Engorgement happens when milk production continues but the breasts aren’t fully emptied, leading to swelling, tenderness, and pressure. The best way to manage this while continuing exclusive breastfeeding is to encourage frequent feeds from both breasts with a good latch. When the baby drains the breasts effectively, milk is removed more completely, which reduces pressure and pain and helps normalize supply.

Nurse from both sides at each feeding and ensure the baby latches deeply so milk is removed from the ducts. A well-fitting, supportive bra helps minimize discomfort and supports the breasts as they soften after a feeding. If fullness remains or the baby isn’t draining well at a given feeding, expressing milk—by hand or with a pump—can relieve the excess milk and prevent plugged ducts or mastitis, while you continue to breastfeed.

Avoid stopping breastfeeding, which would alter the infant's nutrition plan. Wearing a tight bra or applying heat without subsequent milk removal can worsen engorgement by restricting drainage or increasing swelling. Keeping the breasts drained and comfortable supports ongoing exclusive breastfeeding and helps maintain supply.