Engorgement changes the shape and curvature of the nipple region by making the breast inflexible, flat, hard, and swollen.

If it continues unchecked, the plugged duct can become a breast infection, at which point she may have a fever or flu-like symptoms.

Symptoms include the breasts being swollen and oedematous, and the skin appearing shiny and diffusely red.

Engorgement occurs less often in baby-friendly hospitals which practise the Ten Steps and which help mothers to start breastfeeding soon after delivery.

[6] Medical methods of treating engorged breasts are proteolytic enzymes such as serrapeptase, protease, and subcutaneous oxytocin.

Cabbage leaves are often cited as a possible treatment but studies have found they provide "no overall benefit" on breast engorgement.