What should a nurse instruct a new mother to do when experiencing severe engorgement that hinders latching?

When a new mother experiences severe engorgement that makes it difficult for her baby to latch, using the reverse pressure softening technique is an effective method to alleviate the condition. This technique involves gentle pressure applied to the areola, which helps to push some of the milk back into the breast tissue, reducing swelling and allowing the nipple to become more exposed and softer. This can make it easier for the baby to latch correctly.

Moreover, while feeding the baby earlier might seem beneficial, if engorgement is severe, it may still not resolve the issue effectively. Warm compresses can provide some comfort and encourage milk flow, but they may not address the immediate difficulty in latching as effectively as the reverse pressure technique. Switching to formula feeding is not a recommended solution for managing engorgement, as it does not help the breastfeeding relationship and can potentially lead to more engorgement if the milk supply becomes inadequate.