Latch On Difficulties With Engorgement

If your engorgement is not getting better, it may lead to "latch on" problems. Consider the following:

• Nurse one breast soft and pump to comfort
• Pump before latch to soften and to erect your nipple
• If unable to latch, pump and fed your baby until he is content
• Cold compress 10 minutes after nursing/pumping breast, then apply a cabbage leaf to involved area until it wilts as needed after the nursing/pumping
• Apply lanolin or Vitamin E (400 IU) after nursing or before pumping to soothe and heal
• Do not use a high suction or too low a vacuum setting on your breast pump
• Use gentle breast massage before & during the nursing or pumping
• Use over the counter pain medication (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) for discomfort
• Rest between feedings or pumpings
• Drink to quench your thirst and eat frequent healthy snacks

Call Lactation Services at (319) 235-3620 if the recommendations are not effective. The lactation consultant will discuss with you, if an office visit is needed to further assess the nursing, "a latch", at that time.