On the third postpartum day, a client complains of extremely tender breasts. On palpation, the nurse notes a very firm, shiny appearance to the breasts and some milk leakage. She is bottle feeding. The nurse should initially recommend to her to:

Judicious use of analgesics is appropriate with breast engorgement; however, mechanical suppression would be the initial recommendation. Breast-feeding every 1›-3 hours will reduce and/or prevent breast engorgement. Breast-feeding will promote milk production, which will compound the distention and stasis of the venous circulation of engorgement in a bottle-feeding mother. Ice packs reduce milk flow while the snug, supportive bra provides mechanical suppression and decreases pulling on Cooper's ligament. In addition, breast binders or ace bandages may be used for some women. Warmth promotes milk production and may stimulate the let-down reflex. These measures would contribute to the venous congestion of engorgement.