To help prevent breast engorgement, how often should a mother feed or express milk in a 24-hour period?

Feeding or expressing milk eight times within a 24-hour period is considered optimal for preventing breast engorgement in new mothers. This frequency helps to ensure that the breasts are adequately emptied of milk, which can help maintain a good milk supply while also reducing the risk of discomfort or complications associated with engorgement. Engorgement can occur when there is an excessive accumulation of milk in the breast tissue, leading to swelling, pain, and potential problems with breastfeeding.

By feeding or expressing milk eight times, mothers can effectively manage their milk production and prevent the situation where the breasts become overfull. This frequency also supports the establishment of a regular feeding pattern for the baby, which further assists in maintaining maternal comfort and promoting successful breastfeeding efforts. Additionally, frequent feeding or expressing helps to stimulate milk production and ensures that the baby receives adequate nutrition.

While options suggesting fewer or more frequent feeds may relate to individual circumstances, research and clinical guidelines typically recommend between eight to twelve feeds per day as a general standard for effective milk management and breastfeeding success. The choice of eight times strikes a good balance for most mothers, which is why this option is deemed correct in this context.