Early Breast Engorgement: Why Is No One Talking About This?

As you enter the final stretch of pregnancy, your body is preparing for the incredible journey of welcoming and nourishing your baby. One common postpartum experience that many moms encounter is early breast engorgement and yet…no one seems to be prepared for this.

Early engorgement can happen fast, and it’s one of the top reasons many moms give up on breastfeeding within those first few days. This is why it’s so important to know about it, know what you can do about it, get over the hump, and make those mountains into mole hills so you can achieve your breastfeeding goals.

Whether you plan to breastfeed, pump, formula feed, or suppress your milk supply, understanding what breast engorgement is, why it happens, and how to manage it can make a huge difference in both your comfort and confidence during those early days.

I’ve seen and spoken with countless new mothers who didn’t even think to research what they could do about breast pain after delivery because they were so overwhelmed with the responsibilities of a newborn and lack of sleep.

So, if you’re in this boat, or even better if you’re in your third trimester and getting prepared to thrive postpartum, this article is for you.

What Is Breast Engorgement, Exactly?

Breast engorgement occurs when your breasts become overly full, firm, and swollen due to milk production.

This natural process typically begins within 2 to 5 days after delivery as your milk transitions from colostrum (a nutrient-rich, golden liquid) to mature milk. While engorgement is a sign that your body is producing milk, it can also feel incredibly uncomfortable if not managed properly or if you happen to be a superproducer.

Why Does Engorgement Happen?

Your breasts are designed to produce and store milk, but in the early postpartum period, your body is still figuring out how much milk your baby needs. This initial milk production can lead to engorgement. Blood flow to your breasts increases and milk builds up faster than it can be expressed. The fullness of the breast causes the nipple to flatten out, preventing a good latch for your baby and a painful pumping experience.

Engorgement may occur whether you’re breastfeeding or not. If you’re breastfeeding, your baby’s feeding patterns will help regulate your supply. If you’re choosing to suppress lactation, your body will still initially produce milk before gradually stopping.

What Does Engorgement Feel Like?

Painful breasts making pumping or feeding difficult
Swelling and heaviness in the breasts
Firm or hard areas
Warmth or tenderness
A tight, stretched feeling in the skin
Flattened nipples, which may make latching more challenging

Thankfully, with the right strategies, you can find relief, overcome engorgement quickly, and get back to learning how to feed your baby.

How to Stay Comfortable During Engorgement

Your comfort matters, and there are plenty of ways to manage engorgement whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or choosing to suppress your milk supply. Here’s how:

1. If You’re Breastfeeding:

Use CaboCrème: Our topical cream, made with concentrated cabbage extract and botanicals, is a game-changer for relieving engorgement and gets to work within about 15 minutes. When it's used for occasional engorgement, it will not decrease your milk supply and can help you continue breastfeeding.
Frequent Feedings: Offer your baby the breast often—at least every 2-3 hours. This helps regulate milk supply and relieve fullness.
Proper Latch: Ensure your baby latches deeply to efficiently remove milk.
Gentle Massage: Use light hand massage to soften the breast and encourage milk flow before feeding.
Warm Shower: Taking a warm shower can help relieve the pressure of engorgement.

2. If You’re Pumping:

Express Regularly: Pump on a schedule that mimics a newborn’s feeding pattern. Avoid over-pumping, as it can increase supply.
Use CaboCrème: Use CaboCréme for fast engorgement relief while pumping—works in about 15 minutes without reducing milk supply.
Use a Warm Compress: Applying warmth before pumping can help milk flow more easily.

3. If You’re Suppressing Milk Supply:

Use CaboCrème Extra Strength: Made with double cabbage extract, use CaboCréme Extra Strength to suppress or dry up your breast milk and provide fast relief from engorgement. Apply every few hours consistently and avoid breastfeeding or pumping.
Supportive Bra: Wear a snug but comfortable bra to provide support and reduce swelling.
Cold Compresses: Use ice packs or chilled gel pads to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Avoid Stimulation: Limit nipple stimulation and milk expression to signal your body to slow milk production.

Why Choose CaboCrème?

At CaboCrème, our mission is simple: to help women feel their best in their bodies so they can thrive in motherhood and beyond.

Unlike cabbage leaves, CaboCrème delivers a concentrated dose of cabbage extract without the mess or hassle. It’s created by an OB-GYN, made in the USA, microbiologically-tested, and backed by growing research on cabbage extract micro-RNAs. Trusted by moms, lactation consultants, and healthcare professionals worldwide.

Early breast engorgement is a temporary phase, but it can feel overwhelming in the moment and lead to giving up on your breastfeeding goals. By preparing ahead and using the best tools available, you can overcome this challenge and engorgement will be a distant memory.