What can be detrimental to a nursing infant when the mother has breast engorgement?

Painful latching can be detrimental to a nursing infant when the mother experiences breast engorgement. When the breasts become overly full, the tissue can become hard and swollen, making it more challenging for the baby to latch on properly. A painful latch can lead to ineffective feeding, resulting in inadequate milk transfer to the infant and can cause discomfort for both the mother and the baby.

It's essential for the mother to manage breast engorgement to facilitate an easier and more comfortable feeding experience. Over time, improper feeding technique and pain during latching can also cause the infant to develop negative associations with breastfeeding and may lead to issues such as decreased feeding frequency or refusal to breastfeed altogether. Therefore, addressing engorgement is crucial in ensuring a successful breastfeeding experience for both mother and child.