What does the term "engorgement" refer to in the context of breastfeeding does?

Engorgement refers to the condition where the mammary glands become overly full of milk, leading to excessive pressure and swelling. This occurs when there is a surplus of milk due to factors like an overactive milk supply or infrequent nursing, which can make breastfeeding difficult and uncomfortable for both the mother and the baby. The condition typically arises shortly after birth as the body adjusts to the milk demands of the newborn.

Understanding this term is essential for addressing breastfeeding challenges. While insufficient milk production refers to the opposite issue, which involves inadequate milk supply for the baby's needs, and infection would indicate a medical concern unrelated to normal milk flow, the concept of weight gain due to overfeeding in infants is not directly linked to engorgement either. Knowledge of engorgement can help mothers manage their breastfeeding experience more effectively.