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Published on: February 5, 2019
Treatments for breast engorgement during lactation
Lindeka Mangesi1, Therese Dowswell
1Epidemiological Research and Surveillance Management Directorate, Eastern Cape Department of Health, Private Bag X0038, Bisho, South Africa, 5605.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|September 9, 2010
Summary
Limited evidence supports treatments for breast engorgement, a common postpartum issue. More research is needed to find effective interventions for this painful condition, impacting breastfeeding mothers.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Lactation and Breastfeeding Support
- Evidence-Based Medicine
Background:
- Breast engorgement is a common, distressing postpartum condition.
- It can negatively impact breastfeeding initiation and continuation.
- Associated risks include breast infections and other serious illnesses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of various treatments for breast engorgement.
- To identify optimal interventions for managing postpartum breast discomfort.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials.
- Searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register.
- Two reviewers assessed study eligibility and extracted data.
Main Results:
- Eight trials involving 744 women were included.
- Interventions studied: acupuncture, cabbage leaves, cold packs, pharmaceuticals, ultrasound.
- Limited statistically significant evidence for rapid symptom resolution; acupuncture showed short-term benefit.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence is insufficient to recommend widespread implementation of any single treatment.
- Further high-quality research is necessary to establish effective breast engorgement therapies.
- Acupuncture and cold packs show some promise but require more investigation.
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