Anticipation of breastfeeding is a significant milestone for every new mother, a moment often eagerly awaited before the baby arrives. While some succeed, many face challenges such as poor latching, breast engorgement, and swelling, leading to shorter breastfeeding durations than planned. Coping with these issues can be daunting, with conventional solutions like breast softening creams often proving impractical due to frequent wiping off during feeding.
Enter an unexpected hero found in your kitchen – cabbage leaves. Yes, you read that correctly. Women worldwide have embraced this natural remedy to address breast swelling effectively. Recent research supports the positive impact of cold cabbage leaves in relieving breast engorgement and pain, even increasing breastfeeding duration within just 20 minutes, according to a study involving lactating mothers aged 13 to 50 (1).
Using this method is simple. Begin by refrigerating a green cabbage, as recommended by the Canadian Breastfeeding Foundation (2). Once chilled, discard the outer layer and retrieve the fresh, light green leaves. Wash them thoroughly, removing any dirt or residual pesticides. Trim the hard stems, then wrap two large leaves around each breast, avoiding the nipples. If the leaves are too crisp, gently crush them with a rolling pin. Maintain this application for approximately 20 minutes while lying down, optionally securing the leaves with a light cotton bra. Caution should be exercised not to exceed the 20-minute timeframe, as concerns have been raised about potential impacts on milk production.
Results are often noticeable after the initial use. Discard the wilted leaves, and repeat the treatment 2 or 3 times a day with fresh leaves each time. This approach, combined with milk expressing and cold packs, has proven highly effective in relieving pain, reducing swelling, and mitigating breast engorgement. However, it is crucial to recognize that while this method can offer relief, persistent issues like prolonged breast engorgement or pain should prompt consultation with a healthcare professional for further assessment and guidance.
