One breast is engorged while the other is not during lactation.

May 13, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Uneven breast fullness during lactation—where one breast is engorged and the other is not—may result from improper feeding techniques, mammary gland hyperplasia, mastitis, or other causes. Besides these, it could also be caused by conditions such as breast cysts, which can be treated with methods like vacuum-assisted minimally invasive breast biopsy surgery. If any physical discomfort occurs, it is recommended to consult a doctor promptly.

Under normal circumstances, uneven breast fullness during lactation—where one breast is full and the other is not—may be caused by improper feeding methods, mammary gland hyperplasia, mastitis, or other reasons. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Improper Feeding Methods

If a mother consistently allows the baby to nurse from only one breast, the stimulated breast will produce more milk, while the other breast, lacking stimulation, may gradually produce less milk. This can lead to asymmetry in breast size. It is recommended to alternate breasts during feeding to maintain balance.

2. Mammary Gland Hyperplasia

Mammary gland hyperplasia may be related to endocrine disorders, leading to benign breast lesions. Patients often experience breast pain and may develop breast nodules or lumps. Treatment options include fine-needle aspiration, surgical removal of breast masses, and other procedures.

3. Mastitis

Mastitis may result from factors such as breast compression, infection, or excessive mental stress, causing inflammatory reactions in the breast tissue. Symptoms include breast pain, redness, and swelling. If mastitis affects only one breast, it may lead to asymmetry between the two breasts. Under medical guidance, treatment may involve medications such as sodium penicillin for injection, ceftriaxone sodium for injection, or cefuroxime sodium for injection.

Besides the above causes, conditions such as breast cysts, breast tuberculosis, or breast cancer could also be responsible. If physical discomfort occurs, it is advisable to consult a doctor promptly.



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