Breast engorgement but not much milk, what's the problem?

Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

Updated on March 11, 2025

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Breast pain with scanty milk supply may be due to milk stagnation in the ducts. It is recommended to visit a formal hospital's breast department for an ultrasound or routine blood test to determine if inflammation is present. If the blood count exceeds 10,000, it indicates that the milk was not fully drained during breastfeeding, causing it to accumulate in the lobules of the breast tissue, leading to bacterial mastitis. In this case, it is advised to stop breastfeeding and treat the inflammation symptomatically. Local warm moist compresses, as well as peri-inflammatory injections of isotonic saline, can be used to help reduce the inflammation. Antibiotics such as penicillin, cephalosporins or erythromycin may be chosen.

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Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

42sec

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What tests should be done for breast pain?

Breast pain is generally considered to be caused by breast hyperplasia. It usually occurs or worsens before menstruation and decreases or disappears after menstruation. In this case, it is recommended to have a breast ultrasound, which generally shows uneven low echo areas. If cysts are formed, anechoic areas will be reported. You can also undergo a mammography X-ray examination, which often shows ground glass-like or cotton wool-like shadows. If financial conditions allow, further breast MRI examination can be conducted to more accurately determine the benign or malignant nature of the condition.

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Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

54sec

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Can cupping therapy be used for breast distension and pain?

Breast pain can be treated with cupping, but it is ineffective because breast pain is related to fibrocystic breast changes, which are often caused by endocrine disorders leading to elevated levels of estrogen. Generally, we can treat it with traditional Chinese medicine, using methods to soothe the liver and regulate qi, and harmonize the thoroughfare and conception vessels to alleviate the pain. Endocrine treatment can also be used, though it is generally avoided if possible. However, for significant pain during the pre-menopausal period, therapy can be initiated before the menstrual period. Treatment with vitamins B, C, and E can improve liver function, regulate sex hormone metabolism, and enhance autonomic nervous system functions. These serve as supplementary medication for this condition. Vitamin E in particular also helps alleviate pain.

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Written by Zhao Su Min

Obstetrics

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What should I do if I have breast engorgement and lumps during postpartum confinement?

Postpartum breast engorgement and pain with lumps may indicate milk stasis within the breast. It is recommended to let the child suckle more. If the engorgement and pain persist due to a significant amount of residual milk, you can manually express the milk or use an electric breast pump to remove it to prevent the accumulation of milk, which can lead to mastitis. If the pain is severe and accompanied by fever, it is advised to stop breastfeeding from that side and seek medical attention promptly. If necessary, oral anti-inflammatory medication may be administered. During the postpartum period, care should be taken to avoid putting pressure on the breasts.

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Written by Jia Rui

Obstetrics and Gynecology

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How many days before menstruation does breast pain occur?

The duration of breast pain before menstruation varies depending on an individual's constitution. Typically, breast pain is a sign that menstruation is approaching, and the symptoms will gradually disappear after the onset of menstruation. If the symptoms are mild, there is no need for treatment. It is important to rest adequately and avoid overexertion. Applying a warm towel to the breasts can help alleviate the pain. Additionally, it is important to maintain a good mood and attitude during menstruation and when experiencing breast pain, and avoid becoming angry or anxious.

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Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

58sec

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What should I do if I have breast pain and feel cold?

Breast swelling, pain, and coldness are considered to be related to breast hyperplasia, which is often thought to be associated with endocrine disorder causing increased estrogen levels. Local hot compresses, traditional Chinese medicine treatments, and methods to soothe the liver and regulate the Qi to harmonize the Chong and Ren meridians can alleviate pain. Endocrine treatments are also an option, but they could increase the risk of endometrial cancer, thus they are best avoided if possible. However, for prominent pain during the premenopausal phase, it is advisable to take medication before the onset of menstruation. Micronutrient treatments, including vitamins B, C, and E, can be used. These vitamins help improve liver function, regulate hormone metabolism, and enhance autonomic nervous system function, serving as adjunctive medications for this condition. Vitamin E also helps in alleviating pain.