Is this the point in the heat vs cold discussion to bring up the
possibility of alternating?  Like many others, I suggest cold compresses
or cabbage (simply another form of cold application in my mind), with a
warm cloth over the areola immediately before latching if the mother
wishes.  In the severe cases...you know the watermelon, shiny kind.... I
will usually ask the mother if she would like my help to apply alternating
hot and cold.  I fill a sink or basin with very hot water and another with
ice water. I soak large cloths/towels then wrap the breasts, changing them
fairly frequently...when the cold gets warm and vice versa over a period
of 20 to 30 min.  This usually cuts the edema very quickly and rarely do I
have to do it more than one time.  The mothers universally describe it as
soothing.  This is certainly not something I do routinely just for the
severe situations.  I have been following the discussion with interest, I
am unsure where the suggestion.
Rhoda Taylor, B.A., I.B.C.L.C.
Vancouver Island, Canada

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