









































Communication, Society and Media 
ISSN 2576-5388 (Print) ISSN 2576-5396 (Online) 

Vol. 3, No. 2, 2020 
www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/csm 

34 
 

Original Paper 

Breast Feeding Knowledge and Practices among Primiparous 

Women with Caesarean Section: Impact on Breast Engorgement 

in Upper Egypt 
Hanan Elzeblawy Hassan1*, Galal Ahmed EL-Kholy2, Aziza Ahmed Ateya3 & Amal Ahmed Hassan4 

1 Maternal and Newborn Health Nursing department, Faculty of Nursing, Beni-Suef University, Egypt 
2 Professor of obstetrics & gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt 
3 Professor of Maternal and Newborn Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Egypt 
4 Professor of Obstetrics and Women’s’ Health Nursing department, Benha University, Egypt 
* Hanan Elzeblawy Hassan, Maternal and Newborn Health Nursing department, Faculty of Nursing, 

Beni-Suef University, Egypt 

 

Received: March 10, 2020        Accepted: March 26, 2020        Online Published: April 8, 2020 

doi:10.22158/csm.v3n2p34                       URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.22158/csm.v3n2p34 

 

Abstract 

Background: The benefits of breast milk are greatly enhanced if breastfeeding starts within one hour 

after birth. Hunan milk contains a host of dynamic and unique feeding properties. Breast engorgement 

is one of the most common minor discomforts confronting nursing women after delivery, especially 

Primiparous. The aim of the study was to investigate the breastfeeding knowledge and practices among 

primiparous women with a cesarean section and its impact on breast engorgement in Upper Egypt. The 

study was conducted in the postnatal unit of Beni-Suef University Hospital. The study design was a 

descriptive study. The type of sample was a simple random sample. The study comprised 90 

Primiparous cesarean section mothers; suffer from breast engorgement. Tools of Data Collection were 

interview questionnaire sheet, knowledge assessment sheet, observational checklist, and engorgement 

assessment scale. The study revealed that the studied women’s knowledge and technique of 

breastfeeding were not adequate among the whole study sample. Breast engorgement was more 

prevalent among the younger, less educated, housewives, low social class’s women and those who were 

rural dwellers. Recommendation: Providing the mother with guidance and support on positioning and 

latching and modification of hospital practices are effective in reducing breast problems. 

Keywords 

primiparous, knowledge, caesarian section, breast engorgement 



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1. Introduction 

Breast milk is the natural and optimal food for the newborn infant. It is superior to any alternative form 

of infant formula and is uniquely designed to meet the nutritional needs of the infant. The benefits are 

greatly enhanced if breastfeeding starts within one hour after birth. Early breastfeeding allows the baby 

to enjoy the benefits of Colostrum and prevent many infant feeding problems. Hunan milk contains a 

host of dynamic and unique feeding properties. Studies have demonstrated that the health benefits of 

breast milk are associated with how long an infant receive it and whether breast milk is given 

exclusively or supplemented with other feedings (Jane et al., 2002; Abd-Allah et al., 2017). 

The advantages of breastfeeding are more than just the advantages of feeding a baby on breast milk. 

Breastfeeding protects a mother’s health in several ways and can benefit the whole family, and society 

(Oddy, 2002). Education of mother about breastfeeding will increase the like-hood of successful 

breastfeeding experience. Breastfeeding is not instinctive, it is learned. It is a natural process, but takes 

“Know-How”. Ideally, each breastfeeding mother should have a breastfeeding evaluation to determine 

any knowledge deficit and acknowledge. For breastfeeding, teaching topics include comfortable 

position, appropriate techniques, feeding frequency, the letdown reflex, care of breast, and length of 

feeding (Davidson et al., 2008; Abd-Allah et al., 2017).  

Breast engorgement is considered among the most significant problems encountered in the 1st week of 

motherhood (Blck et al., 2007). Breast engorgement is stated as enlarged and filling of the breasts with 

milk. Lactation literature refers to engorgement as the physiologic condition characterized by the 

painful swelling of the breasts associated with sudden increase in milk volume, lymphatic and vascular 

congestion, and interstitial edema during the first two weeks following birth. Engorgement is a normal 

physiologic process with a progression of events, not a result of trauma or injury to tissues (Walker, 

2010; Hassan, 2011). 

Breast engorgement is one of the most common minor discomforts confronting nursing women after 

delivery, especially Primiparous. As a result of increased blood supply to the breast, it causes swelling 

of the tissue surrounding the milk ducts. The duct may be pinched shut so that the milk does not flow 

(Wilson & Lowdermilk, 2006; and Riordan & Hoover, 2005). The breasts are firm, tinder, swollen & 

hot and they are throbbing. The skin is taut, shiny, or transparent and low-grade fever. The tenderness 

& swelling may extend into the axilla. The areola is firm and the nipple may flatten, and the areola is 

too hard to grasp, making it difficult for a newborn to latch on (Wilson & Lowdermilk, 2006; 

Mohrbacher et al., 1997).  

Some degree of breast engorgement is normal. Minimal or no engorgement in the first week postpartum 

has been associated with insufficient milk, early supplementation, and a higher percentage of 

breastfeeding decline in the early weeks. Women with mild to moderate hypoplastic breasts with a wide 

intramammary space (>1 inch) and a tubular shape are at particular risk for producing less than 50 % of 



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the milk necessary for the first week (Newton & Newton., 1951, Neifert et al., 1990; Huggins et al., 

2000; Hassan et al., 2020 “a”). Moderate to severe engorgement is of more concern. Rates of 

engorgement between 20% and 85% have been reported in the literature based on numerous definitions 

and are usually limited to the first few days postpartum. Such reports described engorgement as 

peaking between day 3 and day 6 and declining thereafter. However, data from two unpublished 

masters theses suggest that mothers experience more than one peak of engorgement and that 

engorgement may continue for as long as ten days or more (Riedel, 1991; Csar, 1991). 

If breast engorgement is not promptly treated, it may lead to some complications such as; Feeding 

problems or slow weight gain if the baby is unable to latch on the engorged breast (Davidson et al., 

2008), sore and cracked nipple due to the baby fumbling on/off as he tries to grasp hold of a too firm 

breast. (Morland et al., 2005), deep breast pain (in most cases this response to improvement of 

breastfeeding technique and is thus likely to be due to raised intraductal pressure caused by inefficient 

milk removal). (Fraser et al., 2004), Thrush; a fungal infection can be formed on the nipple or within 

the breast (especially cracked nipple or congested breast), as they live on milk. (Agamy, 2011), Plugged 

ducts (some mothers experience plugging of one or more ducts, results from accumulation of milk or 

dead cells that have not been expelled from the breast) (Orshan, 2008), Damage of the milk-producing 

cells which may in turn cause an overall decrease in milk supply (Mohrbacher et al., 1997), Mastitis 

(acute intramammary), and breast abscess (Riordan, 2005a; Gregory, 2005; Salhan, 2007; Hassan, 

2011). 

1.1 Significant of the Study 

Breast engorgement is considered among the most significant problems encountered in the first week of 

motherhood. Moderate to severe engorgement is of more concern. Rates of engorgement between 20% 

and 85% have been reported in the literature based on numerous definitions. The main importance lies 

in the fact that the engorged breast can prevent nursing, leading to a decrease in milk production 

(Hanretty et al., 2003). 

One of the most important aspects of midwifery care is providing accurate and consistent advice on 

how to prevent breast engorgement and, if the problem occurs, how to overcome it, to reduce early 

cessation of breastfeeding. Therefore, this study was undertaken to assess women knowledge and 

practiced regarding breastfeeding. Assess the prevalence and severity of breast engorgement among a 

group of breastfeeding women delivered the caesarian section. Apply and find out the effect of some 

nursing measures that may relief breast engorgement among a group of breastfeeding women with a 

cesarean section. 

1.2 Aim of the Study 

Investigate the breastfeeding knowledge and practices among primiparous women with cesarean 

section and its impact on breast engorgement in Upper Egypt. The aims of this study achieved through: 



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Assess the women with breast engorgement among a group of breastfeeding women delivered the 

caesarian section. 

1.3 Research Questions 

1) What is the Knowledge adequacy regarding breastfeeding among primiparous women with cesarean 

section in Upper Egypt? 

2) What is the competence of breast-feeding practices among primiparous women with cesarean section 

in Upper Egypt? 

3) What is the prevalence and degrees of severity of breast engorgement among a group of 

breastfeeding women delivered the caesarian section? 

4) Is breast engorgement among a group of breastfeeding women delivered the caesarian section will be 

affected by women’s knowledge and practices of breastfeeding? 

 

2. Method 

2.1 Technical Design: 

2.1.1 Study design: This study is a descriptive study. 

2.1.2 Setting: The study was conducted in postnatal unit of Beni-Suef University hospital. 

2.1.3 Subjects: 

2.1.3.1 Samples size: 

Total study subjects of 90 primiparous parturient women who delivered by caesarian section and suffer 

from breast engorgement for a period of 6 months were included in the study from the previously 

mentioned setting with the following criteria; Free from medical disease which interferes with 

breastfeeding (infectious disease as active pulmonary tuberculosis), Initiate breastfeeding, Her baby is 

normal. 

2.1.3.2 Sample type: Primiparous women who delivered by caesarean section randomly selected.  

2.1.4 Tools of Data Collection: 

Three tools were used to collect the necessary data about the study subjects as the following: 

Tool (1): A specialized designed structured interview schedule was developed based on the review of 

currently related literature and used by the researcher to collect the necessary data about the study 

subjects. It comprised of two main parts: 

Part (A): A structured interview questioner: 

1) Included the general characteristics of the study subjects such as name, age, residence, address, 

phone number, educational level, type of family, family income, occupation. 

2) Antenatal assessment sheet to assess antenatal care during the last pregnancy. 

Part (B): Knowledge assessment sheet: 

1) It included questions related to women’s Knowledge regarding breastfeeding. 



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2) Also, included questions related to women’s Knowledge regarding breast engorgement concerning 

its definition, causes, signs & symptoms, complications as well as practices for its management. 

Scoring System for women’s Knowledge: 

Puerperal women’s Knowledge about breast feeding and breast engorgement. The answers to the 

questions were divided into two categories; these were a correct and incorrect answer. 

a.   0 = incorrect answer.                  b.    1 = correct answer. 

The correct answers were predetermined according to literature and the questions were coded 

accordingly. Each knowledge question was given a score and the total score for knowledge regarding 

breastfeeding and breast engorgement was obtained for each study subject. The possible range for the 

score was from zero to 100 for Knowledge regarding breastfeeding, while it was from zero to 30 

regarding breast engorgement. Women’s total score of knowledge was classified as follows: 

 If ≥ 75 % correct answer = Good Score.  

 If from 50% & < 75 % correct answer = Average Score. 

 If < 50 % correct answer = Poor Score. 

Tool (2): Breastfeeding assessment: It comprised of two main parts: 

Part (A): Observational checklist: 

It contains items related to proper breastfeeding technique as the initiation of breastfeeding, the 

technique used in breastfeeding, duration of breastfeeding, unilateral or bilateral breastfeeding, 

rooming-in, method of nipple withdrawal, and the number of breastfeeding per day. 

Part (B): Breast Feeding Assessment:  

During the birthing unit stay, the researcher, carefully, monitor the progress of the breastfeeding pair. A 

systematic assessment of several breastfeeding episodes provides the opportunity to teach the new 

mother about lactation and the breastfeeding process, provide anticipatory guidance, and evaluate the 

need of follow up care after discharge. Criteria for evaluating a breastfeeding session include maternal 

& infant cues, latch on, position, and let down, nipple condition, infant response, and maternal response. 

The literature provides a previous tool to guide the assessment and documentation of breastfeeding 

efforts (Orshan, 2008). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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LATCH      scoring table    

 0 1 2 

L 

Latch 

* Too sleepy or reluctant 

* No latch achieved  

* Repeated attempts 

* Hold nipple in mouth 

* Stimulate to suck  

* Grasps breast 

* Tongue down 

* Lips flanged 

* Rhythmic sucking 

A 

Audible 

sound 

Non A few with stimulation 

*Spontaneous & 

intermittent>24 hours old 

*Spontaneous & frequent 

<24 hours old 

T 

Type of nipple 
Inverted Flat diverted(after stimulation) 

C 

Comfort 

(breast nipple) 

* Engorgement 

*Cracked, bleeding, 

large blisters or bruises 

* Sever discomfort 

* Filling 

* Reddened 

* Small blisters or bruises  

*Mild/ moderate discomfort 

* Soft 

* No tender 

H 

Hold 

(positioning) 

Full assist (staff hold 

infant at breast) 

*Minimal assist (e.g. elevate 

head of bed, place pillows 

for support). 

* Teach one side; mother 

does other 

 * Staff holds and then 

mother takes over 

* No assistant from staff 

* Mother able to position 

& hold infant 

A breastfeeding charting & documentation tool. (LATCH) was created to provide a systematic method for 

breastfeeding assessment and charting. It can be used to assist the newborn mother in establishing breastfeeding 

& define areas of needed intervention (Davidson M., London M. & Ladewig P., 2008). 

 

Tool (3): Engorgement assessment scale: This tool was especially designed to provide the baseline data 

of the subjects regarding their signs and symptoms of the engorged breast. It was implemented by using 

an observational checklist which illustrated the breast current condition (redness, swollen or edema of 

the skin and pain) as well as pyrexia. This tool comprised four main parts: 

Part (A): Modified Reeda Scale (RS) (Note 1) 

The modified Reeda Scale (RS, 1989) was used to provide the most objective means for evaluating the 

condition of the engorged breast after delivery concerning to redness (R). Mild redness was 

characterized by presence less than 0.25 cm of redness in the bilateral breasts or less than 0.5 cm of 



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redness in the unilateral breast. Moderate redness was characterized by an increase of redness to 0.5 cm 

in the bilateral breasts or 1 cm in only one breast. Severe redness was characterized by an increase of 

redness to more than 0.5 cm in each breast or more than 1 cm in only one breast. 

Redness was determined through four levels: 

 No redness = 0. 

 Mild redness (if redness < 0.25 cm bilateral or < 0.5 cm unilateral) = 1. 

 Moderate redness (if redness = 0.5 cm bilateral or = 1 cm unilateral) = 2.  

 Severe redness (if redness > 0.5cm bilateral or > 1 cm unilateral) = 3. 

Part (B): Visual Analog Scale (VAS)  

It is a subjective self-reported scale for description mother self-rating of pain. The scale was used to 

identify the three pain levels according to La Foy and Geden (1989) as the following:  

Mild pain was characterized by pinking and/or aching, moderate pain was characterized by pressing, 

sharp cramping, and burning, while severe pain was characterized by no tolerance to pain.  

Pain was determined through four levels:  

  No pain = 0. 

 Mild pain = 1. 

 Moderate pain = 2.  

 Severe pain = 3. 

Part (C): Newton’s Scale (1951)  

This scale entails measuring the chest circumference just above the nipple in the semi-recumbent 

position during the first 12 hours after delivery (Jacob, 2005; Snowden et al., 2005). This measurement 

is considered to baseline measurement to assess breast edema as the following:  

No edema was characterized by an increase of chest circumference of less than 1.5 cm. Mild edema 

was characterized by an increase of chest circumference of 1.5 cm to less than 2.5 cm. Moderate edema 

was characterized by an increase of chest circumference of 2.5 cm to less than 4 cm. Sever edema was 

characterized by an increase of chest circumference of more than 4 cm. 

Breast edema was determined through four levels: 

 No edema = 0. 

 Mild edema = 1. 

 Moderate edema = 2.  

 Severe edema = 3.  

Part (D): Pyrexia Chart 

A thermometer is used to measure body temperature (to determine pyrexia). 

Pyrexia was assessed through four levels: 

 



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 No pyrexia (body temperature = 37 oC to 37.4oC) = 0. 

 Mild pyrexia (body temperature = 37.5 oC to 37.9) =1. 

 Moderate pyrexia (body temperature = 38 oC to 38.4) = 2. 

 Severe pyrexia (body temperature ≥ 38.5 oC) = 3. 

Total Scale of Breast Engorgement: The occurrence of breast engorgement was determined according 

to the collection of the total scores in Tool (3):  

Total (T) = redness + pain + edema + pyrexia. 

The degree of breast engorgement was estimated according to the following: 

 No breast engorgement if T < 4                             . 

 Mild breast engorgement if T ≥ 4 & < 8                        .     

 Moderate breast engorgement if T ≥ 8 & < 12                      .     

 Sever breast engorgement if T ≥ 12                                 . 

 No engorgement = 0. 

 Mild engorgement = 1. 

 Moderate engorgement = 2.  

 Severe engorgement = 3. 

2.2 Operational Design 

The study to be completed was passed through different phases as follows: Preparatory phase then the 

pilot study and the field work.  

2.2.1Preparatory Phase   

Tools development:-The tools of data collection were developed by the researcher after extensive 

review of recent and related literature.  

2.2.2 Ethical Considerations: 

 The researcher took consent from women included participating in the study. 

 The researcher tools didn’t embarrass of modesty and didn’t cause any harm or 

pain for the participant women. 

 The researcher tools didn’t cause any physical, psychological and social risk. 

 The participant has the right to withdraw at any time. 

2.2.3 Pilot Study 

A pilot study was carried out on 10% of women (18 cases) who were excluded from the sample to 

ascertain their clarity, estimated time, efficiency and applicability and the necessary changes were 

undertaken. 

2.2.4 Field Work (Procedure): 

The researcher selects lactating cesarean women who fulfilled the criteria. The researcher explained the 

purpose of the study to every woman, and then her consent to participate in the study was obtained. 



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Each interview was conducted individually and in total privacy to assure that information to be 

obtained will be confidential and will be used only for research purpose.  

Six days per week specified for data collection until the study sample completed for 6 months starting 

from January till June 2010. Women attended to the postnatal ward were interviewed. The average 

number of the interviewee was 1-3 per day and the time taken for each sheet to complete was 50-60 

minutes, depending upon the response of interviewee. 

The study proceeds as the following: 

A. The whole primiparous cesarean women were interviewed by the researcher during the first 12 

hours after delivery to find out the general characteristics of the sample and assess their knowledge 

about breastfeeding and breast engorgement. Also, the condition of their breasts was assessed during 

the initial interview according to the pre-designed checklist which is used in Newton’s Scale. This 

assessment was considered as the base-line measurement of chest circumference. 

B. The whole sample (90 lactating women) that was suffered from breast engorgement. They were 

interviewed by the researcher in the 3rd postnatal day to identify their current signs, symptoms and 

complain (base-line data of the participants).  

2.3 Administrative Design 

Official permission to conduct the study was obtained from responsible authorities after an explanation 

of the purpose of the study. 

2.4 Statistical Design  

The data collected were computerized, revised, categorized, tabulated, analyzed, and presented in 

descriptive and associated statistical form using the statistical software SPSS. The necessary tables 

were then prepared and statistical formulas were used. The following statistical measures were used: 

A. Descriptive measures included percentages, arithmetic mean (x-), and standard deviation (SD). 

B. Statistical tests included: 

1) Chi-square (X2) test for analysis of qualitative variables. 

2) r test for analysis of correlation association. 

C. Graphical presentation included Column-chart diagrams.  

D. The level of significance selected for this study was P equal to or less than 0.05. 

 

3. Result 

Table 1 illustrates the distribution of the study subjects according to their general characteristics. It was 

found that the mean age was 23.25 ± 5.75 and the mean age of marriage was 21.62 ± 6.25. Concerning 

their level of education, it was clear that those who had secondary or equivalent secondary education 

constituted 40.0% of the studied group. The majority of both the studied women (75.6%) were 

housewives. The same table shows that 52.2% of the studied women were from rural areas. 



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Considering the type of family, it was observed that 51.1% of studied subjects had extended family. 

Concerning to family income, it was observed from the same table that 57.8% of the studied women 

didn’t have enough family income. 

As shown in Table 2; 70.0% & 17.8% of the studied women did not have nor had less than 4 visits for 

follow-up during their last pregnancy. No one of them performed breast preparation during their 

pregnancy. Moreover, a sizable proportion of the subject (92.2%) did not receive any information about 

breastfeeding and breast care and problems associated with breastfeeding during antenatal follow-up 

visits.  

It was found in Table 3 that 26.7% of the studied women had no information about the benefits of 

breastfeeding for the mother. Moreover, regarding women’s knowledge about the component of breast 

milk, it was found that 74.4% of them had no or incorrect information about it. As regards women’s 

knowledge about suitable positions for breastfeeding, it was observed that only 3.4% of the women 

know the right positioning for breastfeeding and only 3.3% of them had complete knowledge about 

infant hunger cues, furthermore, and no one of them had a completely correct answer about infant 

satiety cues.  

Table 4 presents the distribution of the samples according to their knowledge about the breast 

engorgement. It was found that a large percentage (57.8%) of the studied women reported correct but 

incomplete answer regarding signs & symptoms of breasts engorgement. It is noticed from the same 

table that 56.7% form the study sample had no idea about complications of breasts engorgement. 

It was obvious from Figure 1 that mothers’ knowledge regarding breastfeeding and breast engorgement 

was very poor. The majority of them got an unsatisfactory score of knowledge regarding breastfeeding 

and breast engorgement, respectively, (87.8% & 86.7%). It is not worthily to mention that only 1.1% of 

the subject got a good score for knowledge about breastfeeding and breast engorgement.  

Figure 2: Summarizes women’s sources of information about their knowledge of the importance & 

practices of breastfeeding & breast engorgement. It was observed that the main source of information 

(59.5%) was the midwife or traditional birth attendance. 

It is observed in Table 5 that only 3.3% of the studied women initiated breastfeeding in the first 

postpartum day, immediately after recovery from delivery. Furthermore, all babies for subjects (100%) 

took prelacted feeds as glucose or sweetened water. Fortuity, all of the subjects in our setting reported 

the practice rooming-in for breastfeeding. When the method of nipple withdrawal was checked among 

the mothers, the result was that the majority and similar proportion of them (75.6%) usually pull the 

nipple out from the infant’s mouth.  

Figure 3 presents the distribution of the samples according to the severity degree of breast engorgement. 

It was observed that moderate engorgement scored the highest percentage (45.6%) for the studied 

group. 



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Figure 4: portrays the distribution of the samples according to the severity degree of signs & symptoms 

of breast engorgement. It was observed that moderate redness and pain scored the highest percentage 

(38.9% & 45.4%), while mild edema and pyrexia scored the highest degree (38.9% & 33.4%). 

Table 6 illustrates a strong significant negative correlation association was found between the degree of 

breast engorgement and the age (r = - 0.75) & age of marriage (r = - 0.75) for the studied women. The 

percent of women who were able to read & write, or had basic education (2.5 ± 0.65) had got a high 

level of engorgement. The same table illustrates that the level of breast engorgement increased in urban 

areas (2.3 ± 0.7) compared to rural ones (1.82 ± 0.65). Also, a strong significant negative correlation 

association was found between the degree of breast engorgement and family income for both the study 

and control sample, respectively, r = - 0.87. 

Table 7 illustrates a strong significant negative correlation association between the degree of breast 

engorgement and the numbers of antenatal visits for the studied sample, r = - 0.74. In addition, Strong 

significant negative correlation association was found between the degree of breast engorgement and 

their knowledge about breast engorgement, r = - 0.86. 

Table 8 illustrates that the degree of engorgement increased with delaying initiation breast (r = + 0.75). 

I addition, introducing nipple only into infant’s mouth during feeding (r = + 0.82), and unilateral 

lactation (+ 0.76) had a higher degree of engorgement. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Table 1. Distribution of the Samples according to their General Characteristics 

Variables  N % 

Age( in years)   

<20  26 28.9 

20- 34 37.8 

25- 18 20.0 

30- 12 13.3 

 X- ± SD 23.25 ± 5.75 

Education:   

Illiteracy 11 12.2 

Read & write, or Basic education  24 26.7 

Secondary/technical education 36 40.0 

University education 19 21.1 

Occupation:   

Working  22 24.4 

Housewife  68 75.6 

Age of Marriage:   

< 20years 58 64.4 

≥ 20 years  32 35.6 

X- ± SD 21.62 ± 6.25 

Duration of Marriage:   

≤5 years 32 35.6 

>5 years 58 64.4 

Mean     X- ± SD 4.05 ± 3.05 

Residence:   

Urban  43 47.8 

Rural  47 52.2 

Types of Family:   

Extended Family 46 51.1 

Nuclear Family 44 48.9 

Family Size:   

3- 5 44 48.9 

 > 5 46 51.1 

Mean     X- ± SD 6.025 ± 2.015 



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Family Income:   

Not enough 52 57.8 

Enough for living only 30 33.3 

Enough & can save from it 8 8.9 

 

Table 2. Distribution of the Samples according to their Follow up Antenatal Care 

Variables  N % 

Follow Up Antenatal Care   

Yes 27 30.0 

No 63 70.0 

 Reasons For not Seeking Antenatal Care #   

Lack of awareness about antenatal care services  29 32.2 

Financial factor  44 48.9 

Have no decision making power 63 70.0 

Long waiting & overcrowding center 11 12.2 

Difficult transportation  42 46.7 

For high risk cases only & Absence of health problems 23 25.6 

Number Of Antenatal Visit   

Non 63 70.0 

< 4 time 16 17.8 

≥ 4 time 11 12.2 

Breast Preparation During Pregnancy   

Yes 0 0 

No 90 100 

Is Woman Received Knowledge About Breast Feeding, Care & Problem 

Associated With Breast Feeding 
  

Yes 7 7.8 

 No           83 92.2 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Table 3. Women’s Knowledge & Practices Regarding Breast Feeding 

knowledge N % 

Importance Of Breast Feeding For Infant    

Complete & Correct 16 17.7 

Incomplete & Correct 50 55.6 

Don’t Know & incorrect  24 26.7 

X- ± SD 1.6 ± 0.65 

Importance Of Breast Feeding For Mother   

Complete & Correct 9 10.0 

Incomplete &Correct 44 48.9 

Don’t Know & incorrect  37 41.1 

X- ± SD  1.7 ± 0.65 

Importance Of Breast Feeding For Society   

Complete & Correct 4 4.4 

Incomplete &Correct 14 15.6 

Don’t Know & incorrect  72 80.0 

X- ± SD 1.335 ± 0.45 

Importance Of Colostrum Milk   

Complete & Correct 26 28.9 

Incomplete &Correct 63 70.0 

Don’t Know & incorrect  1 1.1 

X- ± SD 2.25 ± 0.5 

Components Of Breast Milk    

Complete & Correct 23 25.6 

Incomplete & Correct 35 38.8 

Don’t Know & incorrect  32 35.6 

X- ± SD 1.9 ± 0.8 

Steps Of Breast Feeding   

Complete & Correct 0 0.0 

Incomplete &Correct 67 74.4 

Don’t Know & incorrect  23 25.6 

X- ± SD 1.76 ± 0.4 

Factors That Affect On Breasts Milk Flow   

Complete & Correct 6 6.6 



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Incomplete &Correct 59 65.6 

Don’t Know & incorrect  25 27.8 

X- ± SD 1.75 ± 0.55 

Different Suitable Positions For Infant Breasts Feeding   

Complete & Correct 3 3.4 

Incomplete & Correct 65 72.2 

Don’t Know & incorrect  22 24.4 

X- ± SD 1.8 ± 0.5 

Indicators Of Their Infant Hunger Cues    

Complete & Correct 3 3.3 

Incomplete &Correct 56 
62.2 

 

Don’t Know & incorrect  31 34.5 

X- ± SD 1.69 ± 0.55 

Standard Measured That Infant Get All Needed Of Breast Milk ( Infant Satiety 

Cues ) 
  

Complete & Correct 0 0.0 

Incomplete &Correct 40 44.4 

Don’t Know & incorrect  50 55.6 

X- ± SD 1.465 ± 0.5 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Table 4. Distribution of the Samples according to their Knowledge about the Breasts 

Engorgement 

Knowledge about the Breasts Engorgement. N % 

It is a one of the problems associated with Breast Feeding   

Yes 65 72.2 

No 25 27.8 

X- ± SD 1.7 ± 0.45 

Definition of Breast engorgement   

Correct answer 41 45.6 

In correct answer 49 54.4 

 X- ± SD 1.45  ± 0.5 

Causes of Breast engorgement   

Complete & Correct 1 1.1 

Incomplete &Correct 47 52.2 

Don’t Know & incorrect  42 46.7 

X- ± SD 1.5 ± 0.5 

Symptoms of Breast engorgement   

Complete & Correct 1 1.1 

Incomplete & Correct 52 57.8 

Don’t Know & incorrect  37 41.1 

X- ± SD 1.55 ± 0.5 

Complications of Breast engorgement   

Complete & Correct 7 7.7 

Incomplete & Correct 32 35.6 

Don’t Know & incorrect  51 56.7 

X- ± SD 1.5 ± 0.5 

Preventive measures of Breast engorgement   

Complete & Correct 2 2.2 

Incomplete &Correct 39 43.3 

Don’t Know & incorrect  49 54.5 

X- ± SD 1.5 ± 0.55 

Management of Breast engorgement   

Complete & Correct 12 13.3 

Incomplete & Correct 29 32.2 



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Don’t Know & incorrect  49 54.4 

X- ± SD 1.6 ± 0.75 

 

 
Figure 1. Total Score of Women’s Knowledge about Breast Feeding and Breast Engorgement 

Poor * < 50% of the total score, Average ** 50 - < 75% of the total score, Good *** 75 - 100% of 

the total score 

 

 

X- ± SD = 43.0 ± 8.5 X- ± SD = 43.3 ± 8.8 



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Figure 2. Women’s Sources of Information about Importance & Practices of Breast Feeding & 

Breast Engorgement 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Table 5. Distribution of the Samples according to their Practices Regarding Breast Feeding 

Variables  N % 

Initiation Of Breast Feeding    

1st postpartum day  3 3.3 

2nd postpartum day 43 47.8 

3rd postpartum day 44 48.9 

Giving Prelacted Feeds    

Yes 90 100 

No 0.0 0.0 

Newborn Positions During Feeding    

Cradle position 20 22.2 

Cross Cradle position 28 28.9 

Lateral ( sidling ) position 44 48.9 

Football position 0 0.0 

Women Breasts & General Hygiene Before Feeding   

Yes 7 7.8 

No 83 92.2 

Parts That Introduced Into The Infant’s Mouth During Feeding    

Nipple 68 75.6 

Nipple and areola 22 24.4 

Breast Feeding Is Practiced   

bilateral 29 32.2 

unilateral  61 67.8 

Did you practice rooming in   

Yes 90 100 

No 0 0.0 

Number Of Breast Feeding Per Day    

3 time / day 32 35.6 

4-7 time / day 48 53.3 

8-12 time / day 10 11.1 

Mean    X- ± SD 4.6 ± 2.05 

Duration Of Newborn Lactation (Unilateral )   

< 10        minutes 44 48.9 

10-         minutes 31 34.4 



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15-        minutes  15 16.7 

20- 45   minutes 0 0.0 

       Mean     X- ± SD  11.88 ± 3.75 

Nipple Withdrawal From Infant Mouth After Feeding   

Spontaneously infant left  22 24.4 

Grasp nipple from the infant’s mouth 68 75.6 

 

 

Figure 3. Degree of Breast Engorgement and its Signs & Symptoms 

 



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Figure 4. the Severity Degree of Signs & Symptoms Breast Engorgement 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Table 6. Relationship between Degree of Breast Engorgement of the Studied Women and their 

General Characteristics 

Variables Mean    X- ± SD 

Age / Year  

<20 2.35 ±  0.7 

20- 2.25 ±  0.65 

25- 1.8 ±  0.65 

30-40 0.85 ±  0.15 

r  Test - 0.75* 

Education  

Illiteracy 2.4 ±  0.4 

Read & write, or Basic education  2.5 ±  0.65 

Secondary/technical education 1.85 ±  0.65 

University education 1.55 ±  0.5 

r  Test - 0.78* 

 Occupation  

Working  2.3 ±  0.75 

Housewife  1.95 ±  0.75 

r  Test + 0.78* 

Age of Marriage  

<20years 2.2 ±  0.7 

≥ 20 years  1.85 ±  0.7 

r  Test - 0.75* 

Residence  

Urban  2.3 ±  0.7 

Rural  1.82 ±  0.65 

r  Test  

Family Income  

Not enough 2.6 ± 0.6 

Enough for living only 1.8 ± 0.8 

Enough & can save from it 1.1 ± 0.5 

r  Test  - 0.87*  

* Significant Association        + Positive Association            - Negative Association 

 

 



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Table 7. Relationship between Degree of Breast Engorgement of the Studied Women and their 

Antenatal Follow up and Women Knowledge about Breast Engorgement 

Variables  Mean    X- ± SD 

Number Of Antenatal Visit  

Non 2.25 ± 0.65 

< 4 time 1.95 ± 0.8 

≥ 4 time 2.15 ± 0.25 

r  Test - 0.74* 

Women Knowledge About Breast Engorgement  

Complete & Correct 1.35 ± 0.5 

Incomplete & Correct 1.85 ± 0.8 

Don’t Know & incorrect  2.5 ± 0.55 

r  Test + 0.86* 

* Significant Association         + Positive Association         - Negative Association     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Table 8. Relationship between Degree of Breast Engorgement of the Studied Women and their 

Practices (Technique) Of Breast Feeding 

Variables Mean X- ± SD 

Initiation Of Breast Feeding After C.S  

First postpartum day  1.0 ± 0.0 

2nd postpartum day 1.95 ± 0.75 

3rd postpartum day 2.2 ± 0.7 

r  Test + 0.75* 

Breasts & General Hygiene Before Feeding  

Yes 1.35 ± 0.5 

No 

 

2.5 ± 0.6 

r  Test + 0.81* 

Parts That Introduced Into The Infant’s Mouth During Feeding  

Nipple 2.5 ± 0.44 

Nipple and areola 1.6 ± 0.65 

r  Test + 0.82* 

Breast Feeding Is Practiced ( lactation)  

bilateral 1.4 ± 0.55 

unilateral  2.35 ± 0.6 

r  Test + 0.76* 

Nipple Withdrawal After Feeding  

Spontaneously infant left  2.35 ± 0.55 

Grasp nipple from the infant’s mouth  2.75 ± 0.55 

r  Test + 0.97* 

Number Of Breast Feeding Per Day   

3 time / day 2.5 ± 0.5 

4-7 time / day 1.8 ± 0.7 

8-12 time / day 

 

0.89 ± 0.0 

r  Test  - 0.98* 

* Significant Association          + Positive Association                - Negative Association         

 

4. Discussion 

Breast engorgement during the early puerperium is one of the most common causes of morbidity 

affecting functions and experience of early motherhood (Jelovesk, 2006). Breast engorgement is a 

physiological condition that is characterized by painful swelling of the breasts as a result of a sudden 

increase in milk volume, lymphatic and vascular congestion, and interstitial edema during the first two 



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weeks following childbirth. This condition is caused by insufficient breastfeeding and/or obstruction in 

the milk ducts. Breast pain during breastfeeding is a common problem. The occurrence of such 

condition faced by the mother adds to her apprehension and anxiety may lead to other severe 

breastfeeding problems for mother with consequent discontinuation of breastfeeding or addition of 

supplements of animal milk/ commercial infant formula. Besides, negligence of breast engorgement 

may lead to certain serious complication such as mastitis and breast abscess (Fraser et al., 2004; 

Hanretty et al., 2003). 

The present study was conducted to investigate the breastfeeding knowledge and practices among 

primiparous women with a cesarean section and its impact on breast engorgement in Upper Egypt.  

The results of the study reveal that the socio-demographic and general characteristics of the subjects 

correlate, as expected, with the middle class of Egyptian society. Where the mean age of the 

participants was 23.25 ± 5.75 years, and the mean age of marriage was 21.62 ± 6.25 years old, and two 

fifths (40.0%) of them had secondary or technical education, most of them were housewives and more 

than one half of them were rural dwellers and live within extended families as usual for rural 

communities. Besides, most of them had unsatisfied income. Analyzing these data may help to 

understand and/or justify the prevalence of forthcoming results of the present study.  

Concerning the utilization of antenatal care (ANC) services, WHO (1997) reported that, in developed 

countries, 97% of women received antenatal care as compared to 65% or less in developing countries. 

The lack of an established convention for quantitative measurement of adequacy of ANC utilization 

and the paucity of research data addressing the comparability of available indices continued to hinder 

the ability of researchers and policymakers to conclude from ANC literature (Stewart & Hunts, 2004; 

Alexander & Kotelchuck, 1996).  

In Egypt, the literature review developed by Nour (2007) also stressed the importance of follow up 

during pregnancy, and mentioned that pregnant women should visit the health care center according to 

the following schedule; the first or initial visit should be made as early as possible, the once every 

month through the first six months, then once each two weeks through the seventh and eighth months 

and every week during the ninth month until delivery. However, the expectant mother should attend the 

antenatal clinic if there is any abnormal variation (Farg, 2020; Hassan, 2016; Hassan, 2005; Hassan, 

2016; Hassan et al., 2019; Hassan et al., 2020 “b”).  

Some traditional and cultural practices not only had prevented a large number of women from utilizing 

the maternity services but also had harmful effects on them, thus detracting from the value of ANC 

(Nylander & Adekunle, 1990). Although all literature had emphasized the importance of ANC, further 

analysis of the results of the present study indicated that only a minority of the studied subjects had 

utilized antenatal care services in their pregnancy. Yet, the majority of them didn’t visit antenatal clinics 

or less than 4 times. A similar finding was reported in a study carried out in Egypt by Salem (2004). 



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This study aimed to assess the pattern of utilization of antenatal care in Tanta. Another research in 

Egypt carried out by Hassan (2005) who investigates the traditional practices among pregnant women 

to overcome their common minor discomforts during pregnancy in rural areas. A third work done by 

Ahmed (2004) added that the most of women ignored the importance of antenatal follow up, and thus 

had lack of antenatal follow-up visits (Hassan, 2020; Hassan, 2005; Hassan et al., 2016; Hassan et al., 

2019; Hassan et al., 2020 “b” ; Sheha et al., 2020).  

Regarding the relationship between utilization of ANC services by studied subjects in their last 

pregnancy and their degrees of breast engorgement, it was observed a significant strongly negative 

correlation between the number of antenatal visits done by mothers and their degrees of breast 

engorgement. All literature emphasizes the importance of antenatal education for pregnant women to 

avoid or decrease the incidence of complications during pregnancy, labor and the postpartum period. 

During the antenatal period, the maternity nurse should provide the necessary information to a pregnant 

woman about pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care. The most important information that should be 

given to women during the third trimester of pregnancy includes information about puerperium; 

breastfeeding technique and breast care for lactating mothers (Symonds & Symonds, 1998; Churchill, 

1995; Sheha E., et al., 2018; Hassan et al., 2015; Farg and Hassan, 2019). 

The results of the present study reveal an unacceptable finding where the majority of women did not 

receive any knowledge about breast care and breastfeeding problems. This may reflect the deficiencies 

in health institutions regarding their role in health education. Also, this is probably because the interest 

of antenatal clinic focuses mainly on serious cases and neglects health teaching about such subjects for 

pregnant woman, especially primiparae.  

On investigation of women’s knowledge about breastfeeding practices, the results of the present study 

revealed an overall lack of knowledge concerning the different variables that were studied. This is 

probably because primiparous usually lack knowledge and experience. Moreover, more than half of the 

samples were rural citizens with limited educational background & inadequate income. The finding of 

the present study is supported by (Sallem & Mahzuz, 1998; Reghab, 1996) who mentioned that women 

with poor knowledge are vulnerable to reproductive health problems because of lack of information 

and access to health services. The information helps women to understand how their bodies work, 

dispel myths and correct inaccuracies. 

More elaborate analysis of the knowledge components related to the baby’s benefits of breastfeeding 

shows that 17.7% of the studied group mentioned correctly and complete answer. As regard value of 

breastfeeding for mother, only 10.0% of the studied group stated a correct and complete answer. Also, 

only 4.4% of them mentioned correct and complete answer regarding society’s value of breastfeeding. 

This shows that not all of them were fully aware of the benefits of breastfeeding. Grant (1992) reported 

that breastfeeding saves lives, breast milk is ideal reflect food for infants, prevents diarrhea, confer 



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immunity, helping to space births, lower the mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer and reduces 

chances of fetal post-partum hemorrhage, promote bounding. Many authors stated that women were 

choosing breastfeeding, not because of cultures influences, but because of knowledge on the benefits 

for both the mothers and the infant (Nikodem, 2006; Singh et al., 2003; Ip et al., 2008).  

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG, 2007) encourages health 

professionals to support women in attempts to establish and continue breastfeeding. The American 

Academy of Pediatrics (AAP, 2005) recommends that infants are breastfed for at least the first 6 

months of life. Obstetricians have unique access to women as they prepare for childbearing. During the 

months preceding birth, physicians may be able to influence breastfeeding practices by educating and 

encouraging patients (Wambach et al., 2005). 

Concerning the constitutions of colostrum and its value, more than one quarter (28.9%) of the studied 

group responded completely correct acknowledging about colostrum. The colostrum meets the 

newborn’s total requirements for the first days and it is very rich in protective factors, rich in calories, 

contains more protein and vitamin A than mature milk, very rich in immunoglobulin as well as immune 

factors protecting against many bacteria and viruses and acts as laxative (UNICEF/WHO, 1993). 

Most nursing and midwifery texts reported that breastfeeding technique should be corrected, with an 

improved attachment of the newborn to the breast, otherwise may develop and breast become more 

firm, painful and hot, and fever is usually present “engorgement” (Burroughs et al., 2002). The results 

of the present study reveal that no one of the studied group had correct and complete knowledge about 

the steps of breastfeeding. Moreover, the majority of them did not have correct and complete 

knowledge about positions of breastfeeding. Ministry of Health (2000) and Smith & Farces (2000) 

reported the improper positioning of the neonate on the nipple also usually causes sore nipple. 

Correcting the baby’s position on the breast is the most important tactic for prevention and relief of 

sore nipples.  

Literature emphasized the importance of a mother to know infant hunger and satiety cues (Davidson et 

al., 2008, Leifer, 2003; AAP, 2005). The results of the present study illustrated that the majority of 

women did not have correct and complete knowledge regarding infant hunger cues. Moreover, no one 

of them had correct and complete knowledge of infant satiety cues. Again this is probably because all 

of the participants were primiparous with limited educational background.  

The present study indicates that women lacked basic knowledge regarding breast engorgement. 

Concerning women’s knowledge about causes and signs & symptoms of breast engorgement after birth, 

the result of the present study revealed that the majority of women in the studied group were unaware 

of the causes and complications of breast engorgement. This finding may attribute to the fact that all of 

the participants were primiparous who usually lack knowledge and experience in motherhood crafts. 

This assumption has been supported by many literature reviews since they indicate that breast 



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engorgement is one of the most common minor discomforts confronting nursing women after birth 

either because the lack of knowledge or because they were not properly prepared during antenatal 

period or early postpartum period. Moreover, this is probably because many of them were from rural 

areas that do not usually have good access to care and information (Friel & Hodson, 1991). 

Concerning breastfeeding knowledge, findings of the present study revealed many prevalent 

misconception and wrong believes among the sample. The majority of the studied women had 

unsatisfactory scores. This means that the sample does not know enough about breastfeeding. This is 

evident from the very poor knowledge demonstrated by mothers. On the other hand, although about 

one-fifth of women had a university education, yet, this did not have an impact on their breastfeeding 

knowledge and practices. Baumslag (1989) reported that, generally, in developing countries, the rate of 

breastfeeding declines as socioeconomic status rises. However, MC Kenzie et al. (2008) stated that 

breastfeeding rates for women of all races have increased in the last decade. Breastfeeding rates were 

highest among women 35 years and older, those who are college-educated, and women participating in 

the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) dietary supplemental program. Women least likely to 

breastfeed were those younger than 20 years of age, those not employed, those with low income, and 

those who were black (Mc kenzie et al., 2008). WHO/UNICEF (1999) indicated that women’s 

education, from earliest childhood, will influence their attitudes and performance concerning 

breastfeeding.  

Another important part of knowledge is the women’s sources of information about breastfeeding and its 

problems. The results of the present study showed that Traditional Birth Attendance (TBAs) was the 

first sources of knowledge, followed by mothers and/or mother-in-law, friends and/or neighbors and the 

least sources were the professional sources (doctor, nurses) and mass media. This was not amazing 

since all the studied subjects were from Upper Egypt and almost of them lived in rural areas, were 

housewives, had large and extended families, were married before the age of 20 years old and had not 

enough family income. So, they tended to consult older experienced women as well as friends and 

relatives. Also, this result may reflect how much peers and friends can affect or form one’s knowledge 

regarding important health issues and/or practices such as breastfeeding. It is well known that receiving 

information from wrong sources is just as bad as ignorance (WHO, 1997). 

Isabirye (1990) stated that a support group for breastfeeding mothers can provide valuable information 

and suggestions for breastfeeding. The mothers, commitment to breastfeeding and the support from her 

partner, family, and friends greatly increase the chances of success. May (1990) mentioned that a recent 

study of Mexican and Mexican-American women found that only significant interpersonal influence on 

feeding decision was that the husband and/or partner. If the grandmother is an important family figure, 

she also should be included in teaching. In this way, important people who may significantly affect the 

course of breastfeeding can gain information and confidence. This may subsequently lead to more 



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available support for nursing mothers.  

Traditional Birth Attendance (TBAs) is considered a community leader and a trustful person for most 

women, especially in rural areas. They seek her advice in all matters related to reproduction, sexuality, 

family planning, and even marital problems. Abd-el-Twab et al. (2000) in Raedat Ryfyate Project was 

activated and intended to train them to help them to provide helpful and sound care to their client as 

well as to equip them by the necessary and correct scientific knowledge regarding all related aspects of 

care. Also, a study in the United Kingdom by Liburd (1998) revealed that midwives had been identified 

as the highest sources of information. 

On the other hand, it was striking to find out that health professionals (doctors, nurses) had the least 

rank as a source of knowledge to the participants in this study which explains the low level and 

unsatisfactory score of knowledge about breastfeeding and breast engorgement. Needless to say, those 

health professionals are the most important resource person within the reproductive health team. 

Kharboush (1992) reported that physicians and nurses were the most trustable source of breastfeeding 

information to mothers in Damanhour. In Ismailia, similar findings were obtained. They are qualified to 

provide women with the necessary knowledge and guidance that help them to accept the post-partum 

period with its physical and psychological changes as normal and non-pathologic events and to 

maintain healthy practices during this period to fulfill important objectives such as prevention of 

infection. Therefore, health education for women during maternity cycle is considered an important 

component of maternity care within all maternal and child health centers as well as rural health units. 

However, the role of mass media in different health issues especially reproductive health matters 

should always be highlighted stressed and activated (Mohamed et al., 2020; Gamel et al., 2019).  

Mass media is a very beneficial and effective way to disseminate correct awareness among the 

population at large and specific or targeted sectors of the community in particular. It plays a major role 

in shaping the development of the future generation. This important and key role should be used to 

provide the correct and the most needed information about pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care 

and to improve the level of awareness among people in the community. Health education campaigns 

are also effective channels for promoting the use of health care services and can contribute to healthy 

behaviors that prevent illness and improve the quality of life and decrease the cost of illness. Such 

health education campaigns should pay special attention to peer groups since they have a great impact 

on the dissemination of knowledge (Bonner, 2001). 

The second important part of the study deals with breastfeeding practices among breastfeeding mothers. 

In general, many researches indicate that the incidence of breast engorgement was not influenced by 

the duration, frequency, and technique of breastfeeding. Other interventions, such as providing the 

mother with guidance and support on positioning and latching, and modification of hospital practices 

may be more effective in reducing breast problems. Therefore, postnatal education is vital for new 



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mothers and it may be supported by visual, written and verbal information covering, simplified breast 

anatomy, breastfeeding technique, various positions and attachment of the baby and the stage of 

suckling (Pavan & Davanzo, 1999; Duffy, 1997). 

According to the results of the present study, it was observed that breastfeeding practices were worse 

than breastfeeding knowledge in both groups. Breastfeeding is recognized to be important for both 

mothers and baby. Effective breastfeeding is influenced by many factors which include antenatal care 

practices, the time of the first feed, positioning, timing and duration, supplements for babies and 

mothers and support for breastfeeding mothers. All of these factors can affect the establishment and 

maintenance of breastfeeding. Many of the above-mentioned breastfeeding problems that confront 

women trying to breastfeed their babies are avoidable through access to accurate information. 

Appropriate and practical help and support, when they need it, are effective (Neifert, 1999). 

Early initiation is important; WHO (2001) emphasized it within the first half an hour after delivery. The 

establishment and maintenance of breastfeeding should be one of the major goals of good postpartum 

care. It is recommended that the baby is given to the mother to hold immediately after birth, to improve 

skin-to-skin contact and for the baby to start suckling as soon as he shows signs of readiness-normally 

within 1/2 - 1 hour after birth. Spontaneous suckling may not occur until 45 minutes to 2 hours after 

birth, but skin-to-skin contact can start earlier. Numerous studies have demonstrated that a period of 

early mother-infant contact postpartum is effective in increasing the incidence and/or duration of 

breastfeeding.  

Initiation rates for breastfeeding remain high in most developing countries and may not be decreasing 

as fast as has been feared (Savage, 1990). The present study indicated that the majority of mothers 

started breastfeeding after the first day. This is because women delivered by cesarean section usually 

postpone the initiation of breastfeeding as they have pain which interferes or limit them from the 

process. This is serious because all literature and researchers, AL-Hussein (1992), Alexandria (1991), 

and Ismailia (1993), emphasized the importance of early initiation of lactation within 50-60 minutes 

after delivery to prevent the occurrence of breastfeeding problems.  

The initiation and establishment of breastfeeding immediately following birth are crucial to increase 

breastfeeding. However, Wahba (1991) reported that almost all mothers initiated breastfeeding on the 

third day after delivery. Agency for international development (1990) stated that delayed initiation of 

breastfeeding is a common practice in both urban and rural areas worldwide. In urban hospitals, 

breastfeeding initiation is often delayed several hours after delivery, during that time glucose, water or 

infant formula may be given. There is a great need for health care providers to know more about the 

early initiation of breastfeeding.  

It was observed from the study that, the degree of breast engorgement was higher among women who 

delayed initiation of breastfeeding than those who had initiated earlier. Furthermore, a significant 



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strong positive correlation was observed between women’s initiation of breastfeeding and their degree 

of breast engorgement. This result is in line with Yamauchi (1992) who mentioned that early initiation 

of breastfeeding reduces the occurrence of sore-cracked nipples and breastfeeding problems. Moreover, 

Newton and Newton (1951) reported that, mother’s experience less severe form of engorgement with 

early feeding. Also, the results of the studies of Artola and Jimenez (1990) and Essawy and Ahmed 

(1998) revealed that most mothers who initiated breastfeeding early eventually protected themselves 

from breastfeeding problems. Ultimately, they continued lactation for up to one year of their infant’s 

age compared to those who initiated breastfeeding at later times and thus continued breastfeeding for 

only 5-9 months of their infant’s age. 

Concerning hospital practices, the present study showed that many negative hospital practices 

regarding breastfeeding were prevalent in our Egyptian public hospitals. One of the most common 

prevalent errors in hospital practices is the use of prelacted feeds. Glucose has been reported by 

previous studies as being common prelacted feeds (Mishriky & Barrima, 1993). In the present study, 

the findings reveal that all babies for subjects took prelacted feeds as glucose or sweetened water. 

Kharboush (1992) found that the most frequently using decoction includes sweetened water and 

glucose. To compare with health care providers practices EL-Sahwi et al. (1991) reported that the 

majority of physicians in their sample were using sugar and water as the prelacted feeds given to 

babies.  

Brady (1990) indicated that prelacted feeds are physiologically unnecessary for either the nutrition or 

the hydration of normal babies because a healthy baby does not need extra fluid or foods before 

breastfeeding is established, and it may harmful because it will interfere with appetite and desire of the 

baby to suckle. Babies who have had their appetite satisfied with an artificial feed may lose interest in 

trying to breastfeed. Consequently, they may delay the onset of lactation. Prelacted feeds may also 

introduce infection because the baby is not protected by the anti-infective factors which are 

concentrated in the colostrum (UNICEF UK, 1999). 

Another important part of breastfeeding practices is managing the system of feeding properly. 

On-demand feeding program facilitates each baby’s rhythm and may be less traumatic to the mother’s 

nipples while not causing excessive weight gain (Nikodem, 2006; Davidson et al., 2008). Demand 

feeding is critical for the establishment of good breast milk supply. This has been called responsive 

feeding, or breast on request. May (1990) indicated that rigid feeding schedules, substitutions of other 

liquids of breast milk, and delaying feeding will gradually decrease the supply of milk.  

Regarding the frequency and duration of breastfeeding, times/day, the finding of this study revealed 

that, more than one third (35.6%) of the study sample breastfeed their infants less than 3 times/day, and 

about one half (48.9%) of them feed their infants less than 10 minutes/day. This disappointing 

observation is serious because all literature reviews emphasized the importance of nursing 



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“on-demand”. Newborns need to nurse frequently at least every two hours, and not on any strict 

schedule, this will stimulate the mother’s breast to produce plenty of milk. Later, the baby can settle 

into a more predictable routine. However, because breast milk is more easily digested than the formula, 

breast-fed babies often eat more frequently than bottle-fed babies (Aarts, 2004; Nikodem, 2006). 

Baunmslag (1989) reported that most research findings showed higher rates and longer duration of 

breastfeeding in rural areas. Kharboush (1992), Henagel (1989) and Okhasha (2000) supported the 

same findings. In brief, most infants born at term feed 8-10 times a day for approximately 20 minutes 

(Eglash et al., 2008; Komar, et al., 2007; Kramer et al., 2001). 

It was observed that the degree of breast engorgement was less among women who breastfed 8-12 

times/day. A strongly negative correlation was observed between the frequency of breastfeeding and 

degree breast engorgement. This result is not incongruence with Newton & Newton (1951) who stated 

that, mother’s experience less severe form of engorgement with frequent, self-demand feeding and 

unlimited suckling times. Short frequent feeds were shown to increase engorgement in a study 

performed by Moon & Humenick (1989), probably because abbreviated feeds (as short as two minutes) 

did not allow sufficient drainage of the breast as preventing milk accumulation.  

Hospital practices such as rooming-in have been shown to improve breastfeeding success. However, it 

has been a common practice in many hospitals to separate mothers and babies and put the babies in a 

nursery, to allow the mothers to rest and to be observed. No advantages have been proven and 

outbreaks of infection in nurseries are associated with these practices. The results of this study 

illustrated that all of the subjects in our setting reported the practice rooming-in. This result is in 

accordance with all literature which focuses on room-in (Komara, et al., 2007; Ford & Simpson, 2008; 

Pillitteri, 2003). Furthermore, Shiau (1997) demonstrated significantly less engorgement on day three in 

mothers who participate in the skin to skincare of their full-term babies rather than standard nursery 

care. Fortunately, most of our general & public hospitals, especially in rural areas are not equipped by 

available separate room for newborn babies. Rooming-in practices varied from one place to another. 

Another study reported that the majority of mothers 89.35% and babies were rooming in confirmed by 

Kharbouch (1992) in Damanhour. Rooming-in has several important advantages. It facilitated bounding, 

permits breastfeeding on demand and allows for closer contact with other family members. Restricted 

mother-infant contact after delivery results in significantly more frequent discontinuation of 

breastfeeding at 1-3 months (pediatric advisor, 2009). It is also in line with Salhan (2007) who 

mentioned that more Prolactin is produced at night, so breastfeeding at night is especially helpful for 

keeping up milk supply. 

Breastfeeding is not supposed to hurt. Poor positioning and latch-on are the most common causes of 

breast problems in the early weeks of nursing. Sometimes only a minor adjustment of positioning and 

latch-on are all that is needed. Correct position of the baby during breastfeeding plays a crucial role in 



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both the prevention of sore nipples and the successful establishment of breastfeeding. Professionals 

must understand the underlying mechanisms of suckling and acquire the skill and experience to help a 

mother to position her baby correctly before they can be a real value to the mother (Hahn, 2006; 

Kramer et al., 2001). A proper latch-on is crucial to successful breastfeeding. Unfortunately, too many 

mothers are being "helped" by people who do not know what a proper latch-on is. The trick of 

breastfeeding is getting the baby to latch-on well. A baby, who latches-on well, gets milk well. A baby 

who latches on poorly has difficulty getting milk, especially if the supply is low. A poor latch baby will 

not get much milk. When a baby is latching on poorly, he may also cause the mother nipple pain. And if 

he does not get milk well, he will usually stay on the breast for long periods and may lead to 

engorgement of breasts, which become heavier, firmer inconsistency, thus aggravating the pain 

(Newman, 2006; Kramer et al., 2001). 

Unfortunately, the results of the present study reveal that almost all of the subjects introduce the nipple 

only into the infant’s mouth during breastfeeding. This result completely contradicts the literature 

review which emphasizes that correct positioning of the nipple is essential to prevent sore nipples: the 

whole areola should be well into the mouth, above the tongue, so that the gums can perform the 

essential driving action. A proper latch is a key to easy breastfeeding (ILCA, 2000). Shea (1998) 

attributed to lack of knowledge of the basic skills concerning breastfeeding in some cultures to decades 

of public bottle feeding. The International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA 2000) recommends 

that to prevent problems, women need sensitive and skilled assistance in learning to breastfeed, and 

follow up care should continue until their infants are breastfed effectively. It was observed from the 

study that, the degree of breast engorgement was higher among women who introduced nipple only to 

their baby during breastfeeding than those who introduced both nipple and areola. A significant strong 

positive correlation was observed between breast engorgement degree and part of the breast which 

introduced to baby’s mouth. This comes in agreement with Righard and Alade (1992) who mentioned 

that, mother’s experience less form of engorgement with babies who demonstrate correct sucking 

technique. 

Looking into the technique of breastfeeding, the finding of the present study showed that most of the 

mothers did not know about alternating both breasts during each feeding. Around two-thirds of them 

use only one side to breastfeed their infant (unilateral). This means that mothers need to be aware of the 

importance and technique of breastfeeding. Similar results were drawn out from Damanhour (1992) 

study. Leifer (2003) and Davidson et al. (2008) indicated that both breasts should be used in each feed 

so that they could receive adequate stimulation. The mother should start on the breast that she ended 

with during the last feed. It was observed from the study that, the degree of breast engorgement was 

higher among women who introduced only one breast to their baby during breastfeeding than those 

who introduced both breasts. Furthermore, a significant strong positive correlation was observed 



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between breast engorgement degree and breastfeeding practices (unilateral or bilateral). This result is in 

conceding with Livingstone (1996) who stated that milk stasis magnified if infants consume less milk, 

if less milk is pumped, as result, it may place a mother at high risk of engorgement.  

When the method of nipple withdrawal was checked out among the subjects, the results revealed that 

the majority of women stated that they usually pull the nipple out of the infant’s mouth. This result is 

incongruent with the literature review which indicates that the baby should be removed from the nipple 

either by pressing on his chin or by inserting a finger between his lips and the breast, so gradually 

releasing the vacuum. Roughly Pulling out the nipple from the baby’s mouth especially before the end 

of a feed, would lead to nipple damage and crack (Nikodem, 2006; Davidson et al., 2008; Leifer, 2003). 

A strongly positive correlation was found between breast engorgement degree and the method of nipple 

withdrawal from the infant’s mouth after feeding. 

Concerning the preparations for breastfeeding, Bobak (1993) stated that most women are motivated by 

the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy during ANC to learn about breast preparation and 

breastfeeding. Fikry (1980) reported that nurses should educate mothers about the importance of 

antenatal breast care and motivate them to do so. It is important to guide them to adopt the correct 

technique of breastfeeding. During the last two months of pregnancy, women should be taught that the 

nipples and areola should be washed, dried, and anointed each day. The same routine may be continued 

after the baby starts suckling (Ziemer & Pigeon, 1995). Kenner (1996) does not recommend nipple 

preparation technique for mothers with a history of preterm labor. Preparation should be done in the 

third trimester. 

Every postpartum woman needs to care for her breasts and keep them clean. The breasts should be 

washed at the beginning of the shower each day. Women who are breastfeeding use no soap on the 

nipples, to prevent drying and cracking. The woman can use disposable pads in her bra to absorb the 

excess moisture. These should be changed frequently to prevent infection (Mustafa, 2005). Keeping the 

nipples clean between feeding helps prevent tissue damage, and wearing a good bra provides necessary 

support as the breast size increase (WHO, 1999). Results of the present study illustrated that all and the 

majority of the studied sample had no idea either about breast preparation or breast care during 

pregnancy. It was not amazing as most of the subjects never visited antenatal clinics or follow up on 

their pregnancy. Also, their main source of information was TBAs. Kenner (1996), Bobak (1993), and 

UNICEF (1993) mentioned that usually, the breasts require no care other than daily cleaning with clear 

water. The mother should avoid using soap on her nipples because of its drying effect. Advise the 

mother to leave a drop of milk at the end of feed on the nipple. It was observed from the study that, the 

degree of breast engorgement was higher among women who didn’t perform general and breast 

hygiene before feeding. A significant strong positive correlation was observed between breast 

engorgement degree and non-performance of general and breast hygiene before feeding.  



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The present study clearly illustrates that all women suffer signs and symptoms (redness, pain, edema, 

and pyrexia) of breast engorgement. The results of the present study illustrate the degrees of breast 

engorgement. Studies have shown that 20%-85% of breastfeeding women experienced moderate and 

severe breast engorgement. The degree of engorgement usually lessens with each child. First-time 

mothers often suffer more from engorgement than women who are nursing their second or third child, 

because the time it takes for the mature milk to “come in” seems to shorten with each child. 

When the relationship between certain characteristics of puerperal women and the degree of breast 

engorgement was investigated, it was revealed that younger women were less likely to develop high 

degree breast engorgement than older ones. Furthermore, a strongly negative correlation was observed 

between women’s degree of breast engorgement and their age. This may be due to the fact that older 

primiparae are more likely to be concerned about their babies, thus they followed instructions more 

accurately and breastfed their babies appropriately. Lactational failure, however, leads to the absence of 

suckling and failure of ejection which may lead to engorgement and stasis of milk (Moon & Humenick, 

1989). 

It was also evident from the results that better-educated women had less breast engorgement degree, 

while women with limited educational background had more breast engorgement degree. A strongly 

negative correlation was observed between women’s degree of breast engorgement and their education. 

This was expected since educated women are more likely to have better access to the community health 

care services and source of information that help in early detection and proper management of minor 

discomforts during puerperium. These results were in line with Hassan (2000). It was also mentioned 

that women who had been educated were open-minded to new ideas (Biennial report, 1996). In 

addition, this finding went hand with El-Sherbeni (1998) who emphasized on the importance of 

education in the prevention and control of maternity health problems. Moreover, education should be a 

mean that enables women to gain access to knowledge. The more educated women received a better 

contribution to their empowerment. Education of women could also improve the health of the entire 

family. Women with more education should also be able to control many events in their lives. Thereby, 

access to education had to be a fundamental human right and a prerequisite to social, cultural and 

economic well-being (Rowley, 1992; Gamel et al., 2020). 

The results of the present study also revealed a strong positive correlation women’s degree of breast 

engorgement and their occupation. It was no wonder to find housewives and rural women are less 

likely to develop a higher degree of breast engorgement. This was expected since housewives and rural 

citizens accept their role as lactating mothers and practice it accurately as they are guided. This is 

opposite to urban working ones who prepare themselves in the wrong way for employment. Salhan 

(2007), reported that to help the mothers to maintain breastfeeding while working, the nurse should 



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emphasize to the mother that she must establish a good milk supply, plan how and where she will pump 

the breast at work as well as planning baby feeding during the mother’s working time.  

Regarding age at marriage of the studied subjects, the results of the present study presented that about 

two-thirds of the studied group married at age less than 20 years. Furthermore, a strongly negative 

correlation was noticed between women’s age at marriage and women’s degree of breast engorgement. 

It was not surprising to find that younger women tend to have a higher degree of breast engorgement 

than older ones. This might be due to the fact that day by day life enhances women’s experience and 

improves their knowledge. This result was considered by Ghulam (1979) who stated that early marriage 

could have a negative effect on the mother’s education, and also her understanding of how to relieve 

the minor discomforts during pregnancy. This result was supported by the other researches which 

indicated the fact that early marriage and pregnancy had hindered women to finish their education and 

to get a good job and had become financially dependent on their family. Therefore, teen mothers were 

more likely to live in poverty than women who were in delayed childbearing age (PBWRC, 2000; 

Smith & Maurer, 2000). Moreover delaying age at marriage was a key to improving women’s status 

and maybe a way of increasing their leverages in the decision-making the process (Ibrahim, Mensch, El 

Gibaly, 1998). 

The results of the present study had also revealed a strongly negative correlation between women’s 

degree of breast engorgement and their family income. Degree of breast engorgement was more 

prevalent among poor women as most women were likely lived in large and extended families. This 

increased family size might reduce the per capita income and amount of care the mother gained 

especially during her puerperium. This would affect badly on the mother’s health and her health 

practices. This was in accordance with Abrams & Gordon (1961) and William (1967). Moreover, 

poverty, type, and size of the family might increase the burden on women caring for many persons and 

striving hard for a living (WHO, 1995). These results were supported by the Fourth world conference 

(1995) which denoted that statistics about women and poverty were all too familiar, where women were 

the majority of 1.3 billion people living in extreme poverty. Those poor women were more likely to live 

in crowded houses. 

 

5. Conclusion 

Based on the findings revealed by the present study, it can be concluded:  

The studied women’s knowledge about breastfeeding was not adequate among the whole study sample. 

Moreover, a sizable proportion of them lacked the basic knowledge regarding breast engorgement; they 

also lacked the experience in relation to the proper technique of breastfeeding, duration and number of 

feeding times/day. Their main sources of information were their family, friends, TBAs whereas the 

least sources of information were physician, nurse and mass media which explain the low level of 



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knowledge. The degrees of severity of breast engorgement was higher with younger, less educated, 

working, urban, lower social classes women and those who had limited visits to antenatal clinic, who 

had limited knowledge about breast engorgement than others and, those who had an improper 

technique of breastfeeding. 

 

6. Recommendations 

In light of the results of the present study, the following recommendations are suggested:  

1) Counseling as a practice and technique is vital and significant relevance in allowing the health 

professionals to have the opportunity of carrying out not only educational but also assistance actions in 

the common illnesses at the beginning of breastfeeding. Hence, The nurse should focus on prevention 

of breast engorgement by providing counseling to the mother about starting breastfeeding as soon as 

possible after the birth, to give the baby time to learn to breastfeed before the breasts become full and 

firm, avoid early use of bottles, once the milk comes in, and breastfeed at least eight times in 24 hours 

to prevent over fullness. 

2) Small, informal group health education classes, delivered in the antenatal period, to provide women 

with accurate information about the importance of breastfeeding for the mother and baby, early 

initiation and proper technique of breastfeeding, and how to prevent the problem that may arise during 

the breastfeeding process. 

3) Providing the mother with guidance and support on positioning and latching, and modification of 

hospital practices are effective in reducing breast problems.  

4) Prevention is a key element in reducing breast engorgement potentially among nursing mothers. So, 

mothers should learn about preventive measures for breast engorgement.  

5) Correct the negative hospital practices regarding prelacted feeds, especially with C.S delivery, which 

are prevalent in our Egyptian public hospitals. 

6) Traditional birth attendants already form a considerable part of the basic core of primary health 

workers for the majority of the rural population in many developing countries. Therefore they should 

be trained and prepared in the field of health education to carry out effective health practices.  

 

Acknowledgement 

Although it is usually easy to write down words to thank others for their help, my words do fail me to 

express my sincerest appreciation to my highly distinguished professor who helped me a lot to complete 

my study. My profound thanks gratefulness and appreciation to the soul of my professor Prof. Dr. Galal 

Ahmed El_Kholy, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, for 

his kind supervision, unlimited support, continuous guidance, and assistance. Words cannot express my 

deepest gratitude and appreciation to him; without his sincere advice, prompt assistance and over lasting 



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helpful support my project and thesis would not have been completed. Thanks again and I hope that God 

will have mercy on him, reassures and relaxes his pure soul, and live him in Supreme paradise. 

 

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Note 

Note 1. The Reeda Scale is a tool used to provide the most effective means for evaluating the condition 

of the skin in relation to 5 factors (redness, edema, ecchymosis and healing). “To assess the effect of 

comfort measures on the healing process by Hill (1989)”. 


