I have recommended cabbage leaves on occasion to moms who seem desperate enough
to try anything for engorgement (though what I define as "desperate" today is
not nearly as desperate as a few years ago!). The first time I suggested it, a
first time mom was miserable and was having trouble getting baby to latch on
(which, of course, was only intensified as the engorgement progressed). I told
her about the cabbage leaves and she seemed more than willing to try. I told her
to try them and then I'd come and see what I could do to get the baby on. When I
arrived at her house about an hour later, she greeted me at the door with a
smile of relief. She had just removed the wilted leaves and had identifiable
nipples again. I helped her get the baby on (who cooperated beautifully to drain
mom!), and then asked her if I could get her something to drink. She sent me
down to her husband for some water.  I asked him for a glass of ice water, and
he replied, "I'm not EVEN gonna ask what you are going to do with THAT!"

Cole Slaw anyone???? ; )

Melissa Vickers, IBCLC
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