Question
After childbirth, the baby was hospitalized for two days due to non-hemolytic jaundice and received blue light therapy. During this period, the mother used a breast pump to express milk four to five times a day, and her breasts felt painful. However, for the past fifteen days, the breasts no longer feel painful or hard. Does this mean that the milk has dried up?
Answer
The absence of breast pain does not necessarily mean that the milk supply has dried up. An increased suckling volume by the baby may also lead to the breasts no longer feeling painful. The main concern should be whether the baby is getting enough milk. If the baby is eating well, it’s normal for the breasts not to be painful. The best way to promote milk secretion is to allow the baby to suckle frequently and effectively. For new mothers, the initial milk supply may be less, and they can try regional heat therapy or massage to promote milk secretion.