Sore Breasts

A few days after giving birth your milk will “come in”. For most women, this involves a feeling of fullness, heaviness, and possibly some tenderness and warmth. However, sometimes this normal fullness can develop into engorgement –especially if baby is not nursing frequently and effectively.

When breasts are engorged, they become hard and the skin gets taut. They are extremely tender. The nipple may flatten out, making it even harder for baby to nurse. You may also feel achy and run a low-grade fever.

Most women who breastfeed will experience plugged ducts at one time or another. If you have a plugged duct you will probably tenderness and soreness in one part of your breast. It may be red and develop into a hard, painful bump. It is important to treat a plugged duct promptly because untreated; the condition can worsen to mastitis. Mastitis is a painful infection marked by breast soreness, aches, and fever.

Treatment for Plugged Ducts