Prevention of nipple tenderness and breast engorgement in the postpartal period.

A study was conducted to identify an effective preparation method for breastfeeding and to develop measurement tools for nipple tenderness and breast engorgement for use in a clinical setting. Twenty-five subjects served as their own controls by preparing one nipple and massaging one breast, either the left or right, but not the other breast or nipple. Nipple tenderness and breast engorgement were recorded on five-point scales. Analysis of the data revealed that tenderness and engorgement were decreased in the prepared, massaged breast.