"It is a wonderful feeling to know that I have not only given my babies a healthy start in life, but I have played a small part in helping others too."
Nicolette K (breastmilk donor) - Cape Town
"I have no doubt that donor milk saves premature babies' lives and helps prevent HIV infection."
Dr. Max Kroon, Paediatrician
"I highly recommend donating breastmilk. Knowing that breastmilk may help to take these babies out of harms way definitely gave me a feeling of fulfillment."
Kariema (breastmilk donor) - Cape Town
"Remember that your small effort can make a huge difference in the lives of babies that struggle for survival."
Michelle (breastmilk donor) - Cape Town
My baby is 3 days old and we are battling to breastfeed. My breasts are hard and painful, and my baby cries a lot. I am exhausted, please help?
You must be feeling quite desperate. Fortunately once treated correctly, the engorgement will dissipate quite rapidly. It is normal to have full heavy breasts round 2 to 5 days after your baby's birth. This discomfort dissipates after a day or two if your baby is able to drink often and relieve your breasts.
However when your breasts become very swollen, tender, lumpy, and your baby becomes distressed when he tries to feed, your breast are probably engorged. Sometimes the swelling extends all the way to the armpit and you may have a temperature.
The nipples may appear flattened and sore and the baby may suck, but not receive much milk.
Full & engorged breast diagrams pg 27
The main cause of engorgement is when babies are restricted to feed according to a schedule.
It is also possible that your baby may find it difficult to latch if your breasts are very full. This is easy to remedy by expressing some milk to soften the areola (dark area around the nipple).
When your breasts become engorged, take a shower or bath and express some breast milk to reduce the swelling and allow the baby to drink as much as he wants to.
Feed your baby frequently, every two to three hours. Should your baby not feed from both breasts, express the full breast just enough to make it comfortable.
Wear a supportive bra, even during the night. But be sure that it isn't too tight.
Apply cold packs or cool cabbage leaves to the breast for a short period after breastfeeding to soothe the pain and help relieve swelling.
If you have further problems, contact a lactation consultant.
Breastfeed often to prevent engorgement. This is important as when breasts become swollen, they are more prone to infections.