Do I need to use a breast pump to express milk if my breasts aren't engorged?
Sep 20, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Engorgement generally refers to the condition where the breasts become full of milk and hard. A lack of engorgement in postpartum women may indicate that the milk supply and demand in the breasts are balanced, with no excess milk production. In such cases, there is usually no need for pumping to empty the breasts; continuing to breastfeed on demand using proper techniques is sufficient. In daily life, it is important to maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the breast area and to change undergarments frequently.
Generally, a breast pump is not needed to express milk if there is no breast engorgement. The details are as follows:
Breast engorgement typically refers to the condition in which the breasts become full of milk and feel hard. If a mother does not experience engorgement, it may indicate that her milk production is in balance with her baby's demand, meaning there is no excess milk. In such cases, it is usually unnecessary to use a breast pump to empty the breasts; continuing to breastfeed on demand using proper techniques is sufficient.
However, if a mother does not have engorgement but experiences symptoms such as breast swelling, pain, or nipple retraction, it could be due to mastitis. In such cases, using a breast pump to express milk may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection. At the same time, medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime capsules, or sodium oxacillin tablets should be taken as directed by a physician to help relieve symptoms.
In daily life, it is important to maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the breast area, change undergarments frequently, and avoid wearing overly tight bras. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding spicy, stimulating foods such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, and garlic can contribute to overall health.
