engorgement help

[CakeInMyFace]

Hi am on day 3 after having a csection in Thursday. Breastfeeding didnt work for me first time round, baby in nicu following traumatic birrh and emcs, I was unwell and backwards battle... so a bit of a novice. Had loads of skin to skin almost constantly, lots of feeding etc. Overnight my breasts got massive and are solid like rocks. Dd feeding all morning but still v engorged and milk dripping out. Can I express as well or will this mess up my supply for dd? Also she is feeding soooo much is this normal? She will go 2 to 3 hours then other times its nonstop. Last night from 10pm until 3am she barely stopped....

Congratulations on your baby

It is very normal for a small baby to feed frequently, and cluster feed at night. Her tummy is roughly the size of a marble at the moment so it empties fast. She's also building up your supply. Expressing won't mess up your supply at all, it will boost it if you pump a lot but a bit of habd expressing should give you some relief. Cabbage leaves down your bra apparently helps too (honest!)

Savoy cabbage leaves straight from the fridge in your bra. And avoid hot water (just sponge wash your breasts) as warmth and the stimulation of the shower jet can make it worse.